The scope of practice for diagnostic radiographers in Singapore: A preliminary survey

Abstract

Introduction

There has been an increased demand for medical imaging procedures through the years. This demand requires the diagnostic radiographers in the workforce to be equipped with adequate training and understanding of their roles. The aims of this research are to distill and further describe the current scope of practice as established by the Allied Health Professional Council and map the diffusion of tasks, roles and responsibilities within Singapore’s radiography imaging modalities.

Methods

A structured questionnaire was distributed to all diagnostic radiographers in Singapore through emails sent out by the Singapore Society of Radiographers. Information collected included respondents' duties in their respective imaging modalities, the professional tracks they specialised in, and their demographical information. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using SPSS and Fisher’s Exact test of independence was used to determine correlations between variables.

Results

A total of 120 questionnaire responses were obtained and after exclusion, 99 responses were analysed. It was observed that there was a significant positive correlation in radiography experience and performing specialised Computed Tomography examinations (p = 0.005). Additionally, higher radiographer designation was shown to be correlated with the ability to perform more specialised Ultrasound examinations (p < 0.001). The study demonstrated a diverse range of tasks by radiographers which was determined by education, disparity in experience, institutional practice and training provided.

Conclusion

This preliminary study on Singapore diagnostic radiographers provided valuable insight and mapping of their activities in several imaging modalities, allowing for future development of a scope of practice document for Singapore.

Implication for practice

The tasks undertaken by the diagnostic radiographers were integral to imaging service delivery and play a significant role in the advancement of radiography to further enhance the quality of patient care.