National research for an evolutionary path of the Radiographer Profession in Portugal

• Autor(a) principal: Lobo, Manuel
• Data de Publicação: 2021
• Outros Autores: Almeida, Rui
• Tipo de documento: Artigo
• Idioma: por
• Título da fonte: Repositório Científico de Acesso Aberto de Portugal (Repositórios Cientìficos)
• Texto Completo: https://doi.org/10.46885/roentgen.v2i1.33
• topic: Radiographer; Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy; Profession; Education; Continuing Education; Professional Development; Técnico de Radiologia; Imagem Médica e Radioterapia; Profissão; Ensino; Formação Contínua; Desenvolvimento Profissional

Introduction: The recent significant changes observed in Education, the bureaucratic and legislative confusion that came to be evidenced by the merger of 3 courses in a single degree (MIR) and the absence of regulation and control mechanisms in the profession, necessarily refers to a need of consolidation and stability. Thus, this study aimed to explore and analyze the perception of Radiographers about the state of the art of the education and the profession and about their legitimate expectations.Methods: A previously validated questionnaire was distributed electronically to all coordinators of public and private imaging departments from Portugal, and their internal disclosure by radiographers was requested. A total of 251 valid questionnaires was obtained for purposes of statistical analysis. Results: In the opinion of Radiographers, the current degree in MIR did not allow to improve the knowledge, skills and attitudes of professionals (x = 2.09 ± 1.036), with statistically significant differences observed between Radiographers graduated in Radiography and those graduated in MIR (U = 1913.5; p = 0.000). For 70% of respondents, the degree of preparation of MIR students is also lower, with no respondent selecting option 5 on the scale (more prepared compared to the previous study cycle).Conclusion: In the perception of Radiographers of this study, the path of professional specialization and mandatory continuous training are essential requirements for the consolidation of the profession and its social recognition. For this achievement, it is essential to have a professional public association that properly regulates and represents the Radiographer profession.