Research culture, barriers and facilitators within the radiography workforce in the UK – results of a national survey

Abstract

Introduction

Research is vital for diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers, providing the evidence base for disease diagnosis, screening, surveillance, radiotherapy planning, delivery, and treatment. Despite its benefits in improving patient outcomes and imaging services, little is known about the research culture barriers and facilitators within the UK radiography workforce.

Methods

An online survey with three sections was created, including demographic questions and a validated research and development culture index to measure research capacity, equality, diversity, and inclusivity. The survey was distributed between May and October 2023 to radiographers and nuclear medicine technologists via email and social media. Mixed methods analysis was performed using statistical analysis (R version 4.2.2) and qualitative analysis utilising a coding framework for open-ended responses.

Results

A total of 970 completed surveys were returned: 629 diagnostic radiographers, 306 therapeutic radiographers and 35 nuclear medicine technologists (∼3 % of the UK workforce). Of respondents, 47.4 % had completed or were undertaking a postgraduate qualification and 41.1 % had engaged in research. The barriers to research yielded similar trends over all the radiographers. ‘Lack of protected time at work’, ‘other roles taking priority’ and ‘lack of funding’ being key barriers. The only enablers that scored less than 90 % agreement were ‘research encouraged by manager’, ‘experienced external colleagues able to supervise’, and the ‘desire to prove a theory or hunch’ and ‘research written into the role description’.

Conclusion

Research remains underdeveloped in UK radiography roles. This national survey highlights that currently less than half of the UK radiographers have experience in research within their role. Protected time, funding, managerial support, and supervision access are crucial to embedding research into practice.

Implications for practice

Greater support is needed for radiographers and managers to overcome barriers and promote radiographer-led research.