Abstract
Updating knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis is an important
requirement if one is to remain professionally relevant. Formalized CPD is, therefore,
essential in order to stay current in a dynamic work environment. The majority of
radiographers in Kenya work in remote rural health facilities where CPD activities are
limited. The question thus arose: “To what extent are radiographers participating in CPD
activities and what constitute barriers to participation?”
Objective: The aim of this article is to describe the challenges which affect diagnostic
radiographers’ participation in CPD activities in Kenya.
Methods: The study targeted radiographers who were registered with the Society of
Radiographers in Kenya (SORK). Two hundred and fifty prospective participants were
recruited from the SORK data base, using the fish bowl sampling method. Questionnaires
with self-addressed stamped envelopes were posted by ordinary mail to facilitate ease of
return, while telephone follow-ups improved the response rate.
Results: The study revealed that 69% of diagnostic radiographers in Kenya were effectively
participating in CPD activities. Barriers to CPD participation included time constraints
(62%); financial constraints (66%); lack of information (54%); organizational culture (47%);
paucity of resources (58%); and difficulty in being selected by their organisation to attend
CPD activities (42%).