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Winter SP, Kobes PK, Naiga J, Walumbembe J, Nassanga R, Dunn DP, Crawford AM. A Portable and Inexpensive Model for Ultrasound-Guided Procedure Training in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. J Am Coll Radiol 2024; 21:1289-1291. [PMID: 37722465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P Winter
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Patrick K Kobes
- Section Chief, Acute Care Imaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Joyce Naiga
- Makerere University, Department of Radiology, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Rita Nassanga
- Department Chair, Makerere University, Department of Radiology, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dell P Dunn
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Amanda M Crawford
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Ohene-Botwe B, Amedu C, Antwi WK, Abdul-Razak W, Kyei KA, Arkoh S, Mudadi LS, Mushosho EY, Bwanga O, Chinene B, Nyawani P, Mutandiro LC, Piersson AD. Promoting sustainability activities in clinical radiography practice and education in resource-limited countries: A discussion paper. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30 Suppl 1:56-61. [PMID: 38905726 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2024.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Urgent global action is required to combat climate change, with radiographers poised to play a significant role in reducing healthcare's environmental impact. This paper explores radiography-related activities and factors in resource-limited departments contributing to the carbon footprint and proposes strategies for mitigation. The rationale is to discuss the literature regarding these contributing factors and to raise awareness about how to promote sustainability activities in clinical radiography practice and education in resource-limited countries. KEY FINDINGS The radiography-related activities and factors contributing to the carbon footprint in resource-limited countries include the use of old equipment and energy inefficiency, insufficient clean energy to power equipment, long-distance commuting for radiological examinations, high film usage and waste, inadequate training and research on sustainable practices, as well as limited policies to drive support for sustainability. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, financial assistance and partnerships are needed to adopt eco-friendly technologies and clean energy sources to power equipment, thus tackling issues related to old equipment and energy inefficiency. Transitioning to digital radiography can mitigate the environmental impact of high film usage and waste, while collaboration between governments, healthcare organisations, and international stakeholders can improve access to radiological services, reducing long-distance commuting. Additionally, promoting education programmes and research efforts in sustainability will empower radiographers with the knowledge to practice sustainably, complemented by clear policies such as green imaging practices to guide and incentivise the adoption of sustainable practices. These integrated solutions can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of radiography activities in resource-limited settings while enhancing healthcare delivery. CONCLUSION Radiography-related activities and factors in resource-limited departments contributing to the carbon footprint are multifaceted but can be addressed through concerted efforts. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Addressing the challenges posed by old equipment, energy inefficiency, high film usage, and inadequate training through collaborative efforts and robust policy implementation is essential for promoting sustainable radiography practices in resource-limited countries. Radiographers in these countries need to be aware of these factors contributing to the carbon footprint and begin to work with the relevant stakeholders to mitigate them. Furthermore, there is a need for them to engage in education programmes and research efforts in sustainability to empower them with the right knowledge and understanding to practice sustainably.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Ohene-Botwe
- Department of Midwifery & Radiography, School of Health & Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London EC1V 0HB, United Kingdom.
| | - C Amedu
- Department of Midwifery & Radiography, School of Health & Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London EC1V 0HB, United Kingdom.
| | - W K Antwi
- Department of Radiography, School of Biomedical & Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana.
| | - W Abdul-Razak
- Department of Medical Imaging, Fatima College of Health Sciences, AI Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - K A Kyei
- Department of Radiography, School of Biomedical & Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana.
| | - S Arkoh
- Department of Radiology, York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom.
| | - L-S Mudadi
- Royal Papworth Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - E Y Mushosho
- Harare Institute of Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - O Bwanga
- Radiology Department, Midlands University Hospital Tullamore, Ireland.
| | - B Chinene
- Harare Institute of Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - P Nyawani
- Harare Institute of Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - L C Mutandiro
- Harare Institute of Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - A D Piersson
- Department of Imaging Technology & Sonography, University of Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana.
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Kisembo HN, Malumba R, Sematimba H, Ankunda R, Nalweyiso ID, Malwadde EK, Rutebemberwa E, Kasasa S, Salama DH, Kawooya MG. Understanding the factors that influence CT utilization for mild traumatic brain injury in a low resource setting - a qualitative study using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Afr J Emerg Med 2024; 14:103-108. [PMID: 38756826 PMCID: PMC11096711 DOI: 10.1016/j.afjem.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In low resource settings (LRS), utilization of Computed Tomography scan (CTS) for mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) presents unique challenges and considerations given the limited infrastructure, financial resources, and trained personnel. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) offers a comprehensive theoretical lens to explore factors influencing the decision-making to order CTS for mTBI by imaging referrers (IRs). Objectives The primary objective was to explore IRs' beliefs about factors influencing CT utilization in mTBIs using TDF in Uganda.Differences in the factors influencing CTS ordering behavior across specialties, levels of experience, and hospital category were also explored. Materials and Methods In-depth semi-structured interviews guided by TDF were conducted among purposively selected IRs from 6 tertiary public and private hospitals with functional CTS services. A thematic analysis was performed with codes and emerging themes developed based on the TDF. Results Eleven IRs including medical officers, non-neurosurgeon specialists and neurosurgeons aged on average 42 years (SD+/-12.3 years) participated.Identified factors within skills domain involved IRs' clinical assessment and decision-making abilities, while beliefs about capabilities and consequences encompassed their confidence in diagnostic abilities and perceptions of CTS risks and benefits. The environmental context and resources domain addressed the availability of CT scanners and financial constraints. The knowledge domain elicited IRs' understanding of clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices while social influences considered peer influence and institutional culture. For memory, attention & decision processes domain, IRs adherence to guidelines and intentions to order CT scans were cited. Conclusion Using TDF, IRs identified several factors believed to influence decision making to order CTS in mTBI in a LRS. The findings can inform stakeholders to develop targeted strategies and evidence-based interventions to optimize CT utilization in mTBI such as; educational programs, workflow modifications, decision support tools, and infrastructure improvements, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Nalubega Kisembo
- Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine
- Department of Radiology, Mulago National Referral and Teaching Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard Malumba
- Ernest cook Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Mengo Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henry Sematimba
- Ernest cook Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Mengo Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Racheal Ankunda
- Ernest cook Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Mengo Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Elsie-Kiguli Malwadde
- African Centre for Global Health and Social Transformation (ACHEST), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizeus Rutebemberwa
- School of Public Health, Department of Health Policy & Management, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon Kasasa
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Michael Grace Kawooya
- Ernest cook Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Mengo Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
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Omofoye TS, Kalinga A, Ganti R, Minja FJ, Rooney TB. Subspecialty Breast Imaging Education in Tanzania; Clinical, Infrastructure, and Logistical Paradigms for Best Practices in the Low- and Middle-Income Settings. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2024; 38:239-249. [PMID: 37349151 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2023.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
We present subspecialty radiologist training for breast imaging at an Academic center in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. The training incorporates remote, in-person, asynchronous and synchronous teaching methods and multidisciplinary conferences. We use a team of US academic faculty under the auspices of the Radiological Society of North America Global Learning centers paradigm. Trainees are Tanzanian radiologists who are pursuing an additional specialization degree in Women's imaging, utilizing an approved 2-year curriculum. Challenges and opportunities in providing image-guided intervention and diagnosis training in the low- and middle-income settings are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toma S Omofoye
- Department of Breast Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 1350, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Anganile Kalinga
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences Main campus, United Nations Road, in Upanga West, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ramapriya Ganti
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, 1215 Lee Street, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Frank J Minja
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA
| | - Timothy B Rooney
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, UVA Health, 1215 Lee Street, Charlottesville VA 22908, USA.
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Aderinto N, Olatunji D, Abdulbasit M, Edun M. The essential role of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa: a review. Ann Med 2023; 55:2251490. [PMID: 37643607 PMCID: PMC10496522 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2251490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebrovascular disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Africa, and using neuroimaging techniques has improved the diagnosis and management of this disease. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews of the role and effectiveness of neuroimaging techniques in the African context. METHODS We reviewed the literature to evaluate the role of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa. Our search included electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 2000 to April 2023. We included peer-reviewed studies written in English that reported on the use of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in African populations. We excluded non-peer-reviewed articles, letters, editorials, and studies unrelated to cerebrovascular disease, neuroimaging, or Africa. A total of 102 potential articles were identified; after applying our exclusion criteria and removing duplicated articles, 51 articles were reviewed. RESULTS Our findings suggest that neuroimaging techniques such as CT, MRI, and Skull x-ray play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa. CT and MRI were the most commonly used techniques, with CT being more widely available and less expensive than MRI. However, challenges to using neuroimaging in Africa include the high cost of equipment and maintenance, lack of trained personnel, and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges limit the widespread use of neuroimaging in diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa. CONCLUSION Neuroimaging techniques are essential for diagnosing and managing cerebrovascular disease in Africa, but challenges to their use must be addressed to improve healthcare outcomes. Our policy recommendations can help improve the availability and accessibility of neuroimaging services in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Aderinto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria
| | - Deji Olatunji
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Muili Abdulbasit
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria
| | - Mariam Edun
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
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Ogbole G, Adepoju A, Ibrahim A, Togunwa T, Nkeakam F. MRI TRAINING IN AFRICA. Ann Ib Postgrad Med 2023; 21:75-80. [PMID: 38298339 PMCID: PMC10811707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This article presents an overview of MRI training in Africa, emphasizing its current status and the obstacles it encounters, with a report from a recent MRI workshop held in Uganda in September 2022. Africa's medical imaging sector faces unique challenges due to limited access to advanced technology, skilled professionals, and educational resources. While some regions have made notable strides in establishing MRI training programs, others struggle with a shortage of qualified MRI technicians and radiologists. These disparities underscore the urgent need for a more equitable distribution of resources and expertise across the continent. The aim of the MRI workshop was to initiate actions to address these challenges. This workshop leveraged the expertise of MRI clinicians and scientists to devise strategies for enhancing MRI training in Africa. The report outlines the key outcomes, recommendations, and initiatives resulting from this collaborative endeavor. Conclusion This report offers a crucial overview of MRI training in Africa, highlighting its challenges and disparities. It emphasizes the necessity of coordinated efforts to improve MRI education, ultimately contributing to enhanced healthcare outcomes for Africa's population.
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Affiliation(s)
- G.I. Ogbole
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - A.E. Adepoju
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - A. Ibrahim
- Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - T.O. Togunwa
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
- College Research and Innovation Hub, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - F.A. Nkeakam
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
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Nigatu AM, Yilma TM, Gezie LD, Gebrewold Y, Gullslett MK, Mengiste SA, Tilahun B. Medical imaging consultation practices and challenges at public hospitals in the Amhara regional state, Northwest Ethiopia: a descriptive phenomenological study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:787. [PMID: 37488569 PMCID: PMC10367423 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09652-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical imaging plays a vital role in the accurate diagnosis, treatment and outcome prediction of many diseases and injuries. However, in many African countries, deserving populations do not have access to the proper medical imaging specialists' services. As a result, clinicians continue to struggle to provide medical imaging via consultation. However, little is known about conventional referral consultation practices and their challenges. This study, therefore, aimed to explore the practice and challenges of medical imaging service consultation among health professionals and patients in the context of the Ethiopian public healthcare delivery system. METHODS Descriptive phenomenological study was employed to explore the practice of medical imaging service consultation among health professionals and patients in public hospitals of Amhara region from October 12, 2021 to December 29, 2021. Semi-structured interview guides were prepared separately for key-informant and in-depth interviews. A total of 21 participants (6 hospital managers, 4 medical directors, 4 department heads, 3 medical imaging coordinators and 4 patients) were selected using the maximum variation sampling technique. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and subjected to inductive thematic analysis using Open Code 4.02 software. RESULTS Six major themes emerged following the thematic analysis: (1) medical image service delivery practices; (2) medical imaging consultation modalities; (3) benefits and drawbacks of the consultation modalities; (4) challenges; (5) challenge mitigation strategies; and (6) future recommendations. Image films, compact disks, and telegram apps were the consultation modalities used by the referring clinicians to send the medical images to radiologists. Frequent failure of imaging machines, delayed equipment maintenance, inadequate infrastructure, shortage of budget, lack of radiologists, and low-quality of printed image films were among the challenges influencing the medical imaging consultation service. CONCLUSIONS This research explored onsite and referral imaging consultation practices. However, there are many challenges encountered by the referring clinicians and the radiologists during the consultation process. These challenges could potentially affect clinicians' ability to provide timely diagnosis and treatment services which would ultimately affects patient health status and service delivery. Virtual consultation via teleradiology and enhancing clinicians' competence through long-term and short-term trainings are recommended to improve the referral consultation practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araya Mesfin Nigatu
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Tesfahun Melese Yilma
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Lemma Derseh Gezie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yonathan Gebrewold
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Author's Information, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Binyam Tilahun
- Department of Health Informatics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Ramponi F, Twea P, Chilima B, Nkhoma D, Kazanga Chiumia I, Manthalu G, Mfutso-Bengo J, Revill P, Drummond M, Sculpher M. Assessing the potential of HTA to inform resource allocation decisions in low-income settings: The case of Malawi. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1010702. [PMID: 36388387 PMCID: PMC9650047 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1010702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Health technology assessment (HTA) offers a set of analytical tools to support health systems' decisions about resource allocation. Although there is increasing interest in these tools across the world, including in some middle-income countries, they remain rarely used in low-income countries (LICs). In general, the focus of HTA is narrow, mostly limited to assessments of efficacy and cost-effectiveness. However, the principles of HTA can be used to support a broader series of decisions regarding new health technologies. We examine the potential for this broad use of HTA in LICs, with a focus on Malawi. We develop a framework to classify the main decisions on health technologies within health systems. The framework covers decisions on identifying and prioritizing technologies for detailed assessment, deciding whether to adopt an intervention, assessing alternative investments for implementation and scale-up, and undertaking further research activities. We consider the relevance of the framework to policymakers in Malawi and we use two health technologies as examples to investigate the main barriers and enablers to the use of HTA methods. Although the scarcity of local data, expertise, and other resources could risk limiting the operationalisation of HTA in LICs, we argue that even in highly resource constrained health systems, such as in Malawi, the use of HTA to support a broad range of decisions is feasible and desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ramponi
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pakwanja Twea
- Department of Planning and Policy Development, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Benson Chilima
- Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Dominic Nkhoma
- Health Economics and Policy Unit (HEPU), College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Isabel Kazanga Chiumia
- Health Economics and Policy Unit (HEPU), College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Gerald Manthalu
- Department of Planning and Policy Development, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Joseph Mfutso-Bengo
- Health Economics and Policy Unit (HEPU), College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Paul Revill
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Drummond
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Sculpher
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
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Mkhize N, Tiwari R, Chikte U, Pitcher R. Temporal Trends in the South African Diagnostic Radiology Workforce (2002-2019). Cureus 2022; 14:e27148. [PMID: 36004036 PMCID: PMC9392860 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To facilitate imaging resource planning and address key health targets of the United Nations (UN) 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, accurate data are required on imaging personnel at the country level. Such data are currently limited. Objectives This study aims to analyze trends in the number, geographical distribution, and demographics of South African (SA) diagnostic imaging personnel between 2002 and 2019. Method A retrospective analysis of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) database of imaging personnel from 2002 to 2019 was done. The total number of personnel and personnel per million people were calculated for the country and for each professional group (radiologist, diagnostic radiographer, and sonographer) by calendar year, province, and demographic profile. Population data were provided by Statistics SA. Results The total imaging personnel, number per million people, and national population increased by 283% (3,095 versus 8,753), 119% (68 versus 149/106), and 29% (45.45 versus 58.77/106), respectively. Diagnostic radiographers constituted more than 80% of the workforce throughout the review period, increasing by 185% (2,540 versus 7,242). Sonographers, the smallest cohort, recorded the highest (49 versus 503; 906%) and radiologists (506 versus 1,007; 99%) the lowest proportional growth. Although radiologists showed persistent male predominance, the male proportion decreased from 82% to 69%, while that of females increased from 18% to 31%. The average annual percentage increase in female radiologists (14%) was more than three times that of males (4%). Diagnostic radiographers showed female predominance, but the proportion decreased from 90% to 83%, while that of males increased from 10% to 17%. Sonographers showed overwhelming female predominance (94% versus 92%). The average annual percentage increase in male diagnostic radiographers (21%) was more than double that of females (9%). In 2002, 48% (n = 1,475) of imaging personnel identified as White, and 15% (n = 467) identified as Black African. By 2019, those identifying as White and Black African were 36% (n = 3,122) and 35% (n = 3,045), respectively. The Western Cape Province (WCP) maintained the highest overall number of imaging personnel per million people (165 versus 233/106) and Limpopo the lowest (12 versus 54/106). However, Limpopo recorded the highest proportional growth in imaging personnel/106 people (368%) and the WCP the lowest (41%). The differential between the best- and least-resourced provinces thus decreased from 14:1 in 2002 to 4:1 in 2019. Conclusion In the review period, the SA imaging workforce has shown substantial expansion and transformation and has assumed a more equitable distribution.
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