Researchers from Denmark and the UK have conducted an online survey to assess the influences of motivational factors on becoming a reporting radiographer.
Increased knowledge and new challenges were the most motivating factors for entering the role, while less exposure to radiation and less patient contact were the least motivating factors.
Job satisfaction also emerged as a significant motivator in the study, published in Radiography and titled Reporting radiographers within the European Federation of Radiographer Society (EFRS) member countries - motivation for becoming a reporting radiographer.
The study also found that women reporting radiographers rated social connections as a more important motivator for entering the profession than men did.
Cross-country comparison
A cross-country comparison showed title, position and job security were more important for reporting radiographers from the UK.
Hindrances experienced by reporting radiographers included lack of time, support, and standards, while aspirations for further professional development were expressed.
Respondents emphasised clinical pressure typically related to staff shortage, wages, variation in tasks, resistance from radiologists, and a lack of standards as some of the most significant bottlenecks for reporting radiographers, with statements focusing on lack of time.
One respondent said: “I know of many radiographers trained in reporting who do not fulfil the reporting role due to lack of support when qualified.”
“I have not received much support or feedback from my department. I currently do not have an official mentor. I do suffer from a lack of confidence as a result of this and I am considering giving up reporting.”
Exploring motivational factors
Radiographer-led reporting originated in the UK as a strategy to reduce reporting backlog and time taken to report images, the researchers explain.
“The effectiveness of reporting radiographers has been demonstrated, but their motivational factors have not been thoroughly explored,” they added. “This survey aims to understand the incentives for radiographers to pursue postgraduate education in reporting radiography across Europe.”
The survey collected data across a range of topics such as demographic information, professional role, and job satisfaction. It generated 2,39 responses from the UK, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, The Netherlands, Ireland, and Malta.
This is the third part of a three-part survey exploring the field of reporting radiography across Europe. Part one and two explored demographic background, roles, tasks, advanced roles and responsibilities.