Abstract
Various countries around the world have embraced role extension within the radiography profession. This was in response to the growing need for medical imaging procedures and the shortage of medical imaging specialists. In developed countries, the implementation of extended radiography roles has continued to demonstrate latent benefits to healthcare systems. Some of these benefits are reduced patient waiting time, lower healthcare costs, improved service delivery, increased job satisfaction, and radiographer career development.
The above essential benefits have encouraged radiographers to respond to the need for role extension by enrolling in various accredited educational and training programs. Also, they have started discussing radiographer role boundaries in clinical practice, to improve their performance and extend their role. Role extension in diagnostic radiography and other radiography disciplines has already begun to gain momentum in South Africa. There has been an increase in the number of studies that are published on diagnostic radiography role extension. However, there is no documented research evidence that the researcher could find or any formal dialogue that demonstrates that role extension is being performed by nuclear medicine radiographers (NMRs). Therefore, this study evaluates the perceptions of NMRs towards role extension in South Africa.
The study adopted a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional research design. The study population included qualified, employed NMRs who were registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). There were 298 NMRs registered with the HPCSA at the time of the study. The study utilised convenience sampling for the selection of participants. A self-developed questionnaire that was based on literature, was used to collect data from participants in South Africa. Data was analysed by way of descriptive statistics.
The study revealed that the majority of NMRs in South Africa are willing to extend their roles, primarily in contrast media injection and image interpretation. They are prepared to role extend by either enrolling for a qualification or in-house training. Similar, to
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previous research findings, the current study suggests that there is need for further education and training of radiographers who are willing to participate in role extension.
Role extension can offer more opportunities for professional development, job satisfaction and improved service delivery to patients.
Keywords: Role extension, radiography, nuclear medicine radiographer.