Research activity among diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers: An international survey

Oliveira, Marcus; Hogg, Peter; Di Prospero, Lisa; Lacey, Stephen; El-Farra, Samar; Johansen, Safora

Abstract

Introduction
Various national solutions have been considered and implemented to address the factors which limit radiographer engagement in conducting research. Nevertheless, national literature continues to suggest that radiographer engagement in research remains low. The aim of this study was to extend the existing evidence base by conducting an international survey to assess diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers involvement with, barriers to and support mechanisms for research.

Methods
Data collection was obtained via an online questionnaire which was distributed by the International Society of Radiographers and Radiologic Technologists (ISRRT). The study population included an international sample of qualified diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers across clinical and academic contexts in a variety of different roles such as clinical practice, management, education and research.

Results
In total, 420 diagnostic radiographers and therapeutic radiographers completed the survey. Multiple reasons were identified that were considered to inhibit respondents from conducting research. 69.3% indicated a combination of reasons for lack of engagement with research, rather than one single issue. Examples of reasons include: lack of time, insufficient research funding, limited research expertise, and lack of a suitable mentorship scheme.

Conclusion
A minor segment of survey respondents indicated involvement in research activity. Lack of dedicated time to research, mentors, and funding were among the main barriers to conduct research. Further research is required to explore what solutions are available to overcoming the barriers.

Citation

Oliveira, M., Hogg, P., Di Prospero, L., Lacey, S., El-Farra, S., & Johansen, S. (2024). Research activity among diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers: An international survey. Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, 55(2), 232-243. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmir.2024.02.005

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 25, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Feb 24, 2024
• Publication Date: Jun 8, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jun 18, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 18, 2024
• Journal: Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences
• Print ISSN: 1939-8654
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 55
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 232-243
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmir.2024.02.005