Radiographers in ultrasound: Motivation and role expansion. A survey of European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS)

Abstract

Introduction: Variability in non-medical ultrasound practice across Europe has been highlighted in studies. Meanwhile, advanced practice in radiography has undergone rapid development in the United Kingdom (UK). This survey aimed to review results relating to extended role and advanced practice skills, motivation and job satisfaction from a wider survey of radiographers undertaking ultrasound examinations across the European Federation of Radiographer Societies' (EFRS) community. Methods: Following a pilot study, a SurveyMonkey™ on-line questionnaire was disseminated to EFRS member societies to share with their members, and via social media platforms. Quantitative questions for this article related to extended and advanced practice skills, communication of results, job satisfaction, motivation and career development. Theme analysis was used to assess qualitative feedback concerning priorities for future developments within the ultrasound role. Results: There were 561 responses, mainly from the UK, Ireland and Spain (81%). The majority (83.4%) of UK sonographers communicate findings to patients, compared with 27.1% in other EFRS countries. More engage with teaching (UK ¼ 90.1%, non-UK 72.9%) compared with activities in the other advanced practice domains. The lowest involvement was the research domain, with only 33% actively involved in research. Radiographers were motivated to undertake ultrasound to develop their knowledge and skills and assume more responsibility. Conclusion: Wide variations in ultrasound practice were seen across respondent countries. Generally, radiographers are happy with their ultrasound roles, although priorities include legislation for the sonographer role, remuneration, respect or support from medical colleagues, high quality education and role progression opportunities. Implications for practice: The findings provide a better understanding of radiographer views which can assist radiographer societies and local teams to develop strategies to enhance advanced practice skills development and career prospects in ultrasound.

Peer review audit (PRA) in ultrasound practice: A paper based on established UK sonography PRA models which are generalizable to other jurisdictions

“…Increasing demand for diagnostic imaging had led to increasing requirement for sonographer-led services with skills mix from other professional backgrounds, such as midwives. 16 The increasing demand for diagnostics internationally has sparked conversations for other countries to mirror UK models as a solution. 16 Research surrounding reluctance of sonographer reporting highlights feelings of vulnerability and problems regarding remuneration with added responsibility for Australian colleagues.…”

“…16 The increasing demand for diagnostics internationally has sparked conversations for other countries to mirror UK models as a solution. 16 Research surrounding reluctance of sonographer reporting highlights feelings of vulnerability and problems regarding remuneration with added responsibility for Australian colleagues. 6 Professional organisations in Australia including the Australasian Sonographer's Association (ASA) and Australian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) advocate sonographer development and autonomous report writing is the ultimate development.…”

“…In the UK, sonographers independently report examinations, however the practice of sonographer reporting is not adopted globally. Instead sonologists (radiologists/specialist medical practitioners) issue reports and the sonographers: Provide an interim report or worksheet that informs the formal report. Provide a report that is endorsed and signed off by the reporting medical practitioner. Increasing demand for diagnostic imaging had led to increasing requirement for sonographer‐led services with skills mix from other professional backgrounds, such as midwives 16 . The increasing demand for diagnostics internationally has sparked conversations for other countries to mirror UK models as a solution 16 .…”

“…Instead sonologists (radiologists/specialist medical practitioners) issue reports and the sonographers: Provide an interim report or worksheet that informs the formal report. Provide a report that is endorsed and signed off by the reporting medical practitioner. Increasing demand for diagnostic imaging had led to increasing requirement for sonographer‐led services with skills mix from other professional backgrounds, such as midwives 16 . The increasing demand for diagnostics internationally has sparked conversations for other countries to mirror UK models as a solution 16 . Research surrounding reluctance of sonographer reporting highlights feelings of vulnerability and problems regarding remuneration with added responsibility for Australian colleagues 6 .…”

Role extension in advanced ultrasound practice: A framework approach and case study

“…7 Thus, leading the way in creating and providing pathways for sonographers to take on increasingly advanced roles to meet the developing clinical, educational and research demands of services. 2,3 Across health care organisations such as the NHS, many ultrasound practitioners/sonographers begin their careers working in general abdominal, gynaecology and obstetric ultrasound. However, there are areas of more established role extension for ultrasound practitioners, seen in musculoskeletal, head and neck and breast ultrasound, with specific accredited postgraduate training and qualifications.…”