Why do students choose the medical radiation science profession?

Abstract

Recruitment and retention are of paramount importance to medical radiation science (MRS) as a profession. There is a strong demand for MRS practitioners which is expected to continue as the population ages. This study aimed to examine demographic data, factors relating to the career choice of MRS, and future work or study plans of first year MRS students. Questionnaires were distributed to 83 first year students, currently enrolled in MRS at the University of Sydney. A total of 73 completed questionnaires were received. This sample included 30 diagnostic radiography students, 24 nuclear medicine students and 19 radiation therapy students. The top three factors that influenced students' career choices was wanting to help others, followed by wanting to work in a healthcare field, then wanting to work with technology. The most common source of students' career information was family members, friends and health professionals. Among the students, 68.5% were aware of advancement opportunities in their stream of MRS. About half of the students planned to specialise or undertake postgraduate study in MRS, and 39.7% planned to study another degree after graduating. The results of this study indicated that many students chose MRS as a career with the goal of helping others. The most frequently reported source through which the students first heard about the profession was personal contacts. Furthermore, about half of the students were interested in further study. This information can be used by professional organisations, educational programs, or employers to assist in recruitment and retention strategies of MRS students.

The Motivational Factors of Choosing Diagnostic Radiology as a Profession Among Saudi Radiography Students

“…Quantitative Data Collection: Questionnaire An online questionnaire (Serveymonkey platform) was distributed among radiography students via social media channels and through professional network with universities from February to April 2021. The instrument was designed in accordance with previous studies, 4,24 and was adjusted and tailored to verify its current appropriateness to the participants' field of study. This adjusted questionnaire was validated before embarking on the main study with two academic lecturers and 30 radiography students to ensure that each question was clearly listed, easy to understand and currently suitable Minor revisions were made based on the pilot comments received.…”

“…This scale has been used by Bamba et al and Al Subait et al to investigate factors that influence career choice among medical students. 4,24 Qualitative Data Collection: Semi-Structured Interview…”

“…21,22 A study conducted by Bamba et al in Australia showed that the top three factors influencing students to choose radiography as a profession are helping patients, desire to work in healthcare and technology. 4 In Saudi Arabia, for instance, factors such as high-school grades and other qualifying tests scores, which affect acceptance at Saudi universities, can play an important role in choosing a speciality. 23 The qualifying tests focus on students' knowledge of mathematics, Arabic language skills, and basic science.…”

“…This profession has been identified as a field with very good prospects and high future employment growth. 4 Radiographers play a significant role in patients’ diagnosis and treatment. 5 They are responsible for the management and care of patients undergoing the spectrum of scanning procedures including their emotional, physical, and psychological needs pre- and post-radiological examinations.…”

“… 21 , 22 A study conducted by Bamba et al in Australia showed that the top three factors influencing students to choose radiography as a profession are helping patients, desire to work in healthcare and technology. 4 …”