Abstract
It is global practice that healthcare professionals participate in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activities to maintain their competency. The professional regulatory authority in SA, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) deems CPD central to protecting the public. However, CPD compliance amongst radiographers is low, reaching 35% in 2023. South African radiographers find it difficult to participate in CPD activities due to a lack of support from institutions of radiography.
This study sought to investigate the institutional support radiographers in SA need to enhance participation in CPD activities and promote compliance with CPD. A cross-sectional descriptive quantitative research was conducted. A sample (n=171) was recruited using non-probability quota sampling to respond to a self-designed questionnaire.
Many participants (100%), who had ≥ 10 years of experience, showed a positive attitude towards CPD compliance (42.7%). The correlation between institutional support and CPD participation was significant (p=0.05). Cost (100%) and proximity (70%) emerged as leading barriers to participation in CPD activities and the main drivers for radiography institutions to intervene. CPD subsidy (61.3 %) and paid special leave (81.3%) emerged as critical staff requirements and enablers for participation in physical CPD activities whereas, monthly data subsidy of ≥2G (72.5 %) and free access to work internet and computers (57.3%) were critical for online activities.
The study results suggest that the employment contract for radiographers be revised to allow for CPD-specific employee benefits; and that the Basic Conditions of Employment Act 75 of 1997, Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 and governmental staff development funds be amended accordingly. Importantly, CPD compliance should be considered a key performance indicator in the performance management of radiographers.