June 24th: Research and Medical Imaging

There is growing interest in developing research culture and opportunities for allied health professionals working in medical imaging. However, little attention has been given to identifying the research interest and needs of this group relative to the other allied health professions. This month’s JMRS paper aimed to measure self-reported research participation, interest, experience and confidence of allied health professionals working in medical imaging and compare the findings to clinicians working in allied health therapies Dennett et al. Research interest, experience and confidence of allied health professionals working in medical imaging: a cross-sectional survey. JMRS. 2020 Themes: 1.There are many benefits associated with a strong research culture outlined in the study (productivity, staff satisfaction and retention, and patient outcomes). Did this surprise you? What can we do to support this in our organizations? 2.The results for research participation, interest, experience and confidence in the imaging professionals group were quite similar to the other allied health professionals from the previously studied cohort. Do you think this holds true in (e.g.) the UK? What can we learn from our AHP colleagues? 3.The study found that the overall medical imaging group had “some interest” and “little experience or confidence” with research. About a third were moderately or very interested in research. Does this sound familiar in your context? Is this changing? 4.Participants were most interested in finding and reviewing literature (about 40%). Why is this important and how can we help build skills and confidence in this area?