Radiographer chest x-ray reporting in Scotland in 2023: An exploratory study into the attitudes and challenges concerning the development of a standardised, countrywide reporting service

Abstract

Background

The increasing backlog of chest x-ray (CXR) reports in Scotland is well documented, as is reporting radiographer's (RR) ability to provide a cost effective solution to this. Despite this, only 8 CXR RRs currently work in Scotland. This qualitative descriptive study will explore the perceived reasons for this lack of role development by investigating the relevant enablers and challenges.

Method

An 18 question survey was emailed to the members of the Reporting Radiographer Interest Group Scotland regarding the enablers and challenges surrounding CXR RR training and employment in Scotland. All Scotland based RRs were invited to contribute. The survey was live for approximately 6 weeks. Results were then thematically analysed.

Results

The survey returned 14 respondents from 9 different health boards, 3 of which were CXR RRs. Currently no CXR RR training is currently ongoing in Scotland with only 1 of the responding health boards claiming they had a sufficient quota of CXR RRs. Five main themes have been uncovered: service development, monetary factors, a lack of support from management, workforce issues and Scottish geopolitical challenges.

Conclusion

This survey highlighted a desire for further CXR RR training from the current Scottish RR cohort however there was a lack of confidence that this would be facilitated. Resistance from MSK RRs to expand their scope of practice was also noted.

Implications for practice

It is recommended that the Scottish government increases engagement with the CXR RR service to better tackle historical biases, address infrastructural issues and provide further funding for future training and posts. Further research is also required into the evolving attitudes of managers and radiologists towards CXR RRs as is concerns RRs have over up-skilling to better facilitate workforce development.