Abstract
Aim: This study aims to identify possible skill requirements for future radiographers
working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Such information will inform educational
institutions, healthcare organizations, and policy makers to develop effective
strategies.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving currently practising
radiographers (n=74), nuclear medicine technologists, sonographers, and radiation
therapists in the UAE. A comprehensive survey questionnaire was developed and
validated through piloting and expert consultations. Ethical approval was obtained, and
data were collected through purposive sampling. Descriptive statistics, reliability
analysis, Chi-square tests, and factor analysis were employed in the data analysis.
Results:
The results showed that 73%, 47.3%, 43.2%, 40.5%, 39.2%, 33.8% interested in
radiology safety, image interpretation, interprofessional and interpersonal skills,
research and managerial skills, Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)
administration and AI ( Artificial Intelligence) and, clinical supervision and assessment,
respectively. The factor analysis showed four factors factor considered for CPD training
are training settings (15.12), training topics (1.88), CPD credits (1.72) and, presenter
and expenses (1.49).
Conclusion: This study sheds light on the CPD requirements and aspirations of
radiographers in the UAE, offering insights into their preferences and challenges.
These findings can inform strategies for improving CPD opportunities and ensuring that
radiographers are equipped to meet the evolving healthcare demands in the UAE,
including performing enhanced practice.
Implications for practice: Development of flexible and comprehensive CPD
programmes tailored to radiographers' career interests is required. Employers should provide financial support and flexibility in training options. Regulatory bodies should
continue to mandate CPD, fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Supportive work
environments, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technological fluency are crucial.
Emphasising patient-centred care, research opportunities, and continuous assessment
further enhances radiography practice.
working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Such information will inform educational
institutions, healthcare organizations, and policy makers to develop effective
strategies.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving currently practising
radiographers (n=74), nuclear medicine technologists, sonographers, and radiation
therapists in the UAE. A comprehensive survey questionnaire was developed and
validated through piloting and expert consultations. Ethical approval was obtained, and
data were collected through purposive sampling. Descriptive statistics, reliability
analysis, Chi-square tests, and factor analysis were employed in the data analysis.
Results:
The results showed that 73%, 47.3%, 43.2%, 40.5%, 39.2%, 33.8% interested in
radiology safety, image interpretation, interprofessional and interpersonal skills,
research and managerial skills, Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)
administration and AI ( Artificial Intelligence) and, clinical supervision and assessment,
respectively. The factor analysis showed four factors factor considered for CPD training
are training settings (15.12), training topics (1.88), CPD credits (1.72) and, presenter
and expenses (1.49).
Conclusion: This study sheds light on the CPD requirements and aspirations of
radiographers in the UAE, offering insights into their preferences and challenges.
These findings can inform strategies for improving CPD opportunities and ensuring that
radiographers are equipped to meet the evolving healthcare demands in the UAE,
including performing enhanced practice.
Implications for practice: Development of flexible and comprehensive CPD
programmes tailored to radiographers' career interests is required. Employers should provide financial support and flexibility in training options. Regulatory bodies should
continue to mandate CPD, fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Supportive work
environments, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technological fluency are crucial.
Emphasising patient-centred care, research opportunities, and continuous assessment
further enhances radiography practice.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published (VoR) - 7 May 2024 |