Developing a policy framework to support role extension in diagnostic radiography in Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: A global shortage of radiologists is affecting the timely provision of imaging reports and thus healthcare delivery. This situation has been the main driving factor behind successful role extension by radiographers into areas that traditionally were within the scope of radiologists, including image interpretation and reporting. The shortage of radiologists is even worse in developing countries like Ghana. There is a need for policy to guide the introduction and implementation of role extension in Ghana.

Methods: A qualitative, single case study with multiple sites across the country was used. A sample of 16 participants, including 8 radiographers, 3 radiologists, 3 medical officers, a senior official each from the Ministry of Health and the Allied Health Professions Council, were interviewed about role extension.

Results: The findings indicate the need for a guiding policy of role extension to be spear headed by the Ministry of Health to gain the needed credibility. The findings suggest the policy should be made to meet the local needs of the country. It also established the policy should regulate education and training and the scope of practice.

Conclusion: The study established the need for policy to guide the introduction and practice of role extension in diagnostic radiography in Ghana. The study also established the need for a broad consultation of all key stakeholders based on an internationally accepted consensus building model.

Keywords: Education; Policy; Radiography; Role extension; Scope.