A QUALITATIVE STUDY TO DETERMINE THE ATTITUDE TOWARDS ADVANCED PRACTICE AMONGST RADIOGRAPHERS AND RADIOLOGISTS WORKING IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

Abstract Background As radiological investigations play a significant role in patient management, there is an increasing year-on-year demand for radiology imaging, such as X-rays, Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Ultrasound. The UK has demonstrated a significant move towards radiographic advanced practice, with radiographers receiving specific postgraduate education enabling them to report plain film imaging, CT head and MRI (e.g., lumbar spine / knees), and to perform a significant role in ultrasound image interpretation. Therefore, the study’s aim is to explore the knowledge and attitudes of radiographers and radiologists working in Saudi Arabia (SA), regarding advanced practice for radiographers based on a model similar to the UK. The study’s objectives were to explore radiographers’ and radiologists’ knowledge, opinions and attitudes regarding advanced practice, and to explore the potential enablers of - as well as the potential barriers to - advanced practice. Methods This study employed a qualitative approach to obtain data from radiographers and radiologists about advanced practice. Purposive sampling was used to collect data from seven radiologists and nine radiographers. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the qualitative data. Findings Both radiologists and radiographers demonstrated a lack of awareness of advanced practice in Saudi Arabia. After the meaning of advanced practice was clarified, both groups selected two potential areas, which were ultrasound and X-ray. The main challenges identified in the study were lack of support for advanced practice from radiologists and hospital management. Other challenges were also identified, such as the lack of a professional body relating to radiographers and the lack of educational programmes for advanced practice. Promotions, allowances and the creation of new roles for radiographers have all been identified as enablers for advanced practice. Conclusion The study revealed that radiographers and radiologists are unaware of advanced practice in SA. Some radiographers expressed their willingness to become advanced practitioners.