Radiographers and the internet: an Australian perspective

BACKGROUND: The Internet is an important information source for health practitioners, yet little is known about how radiographers currently are using this vast information resource for professional development. OBJECTIVE: To provide an initial data set on professional use of Internet tools and resources by Australian radiographers. METHODS: In 2007, 1142 medical radiation science practitioners in Australia were mailed a survey about Internet access at work and their Internet use for updating professional knowledge. This article reports on and analyzes the survey responses from radiographers. RESULTS: The vast majority of radiographer respondents (93.9%) reported having Internet access at work and many use Internet searches, Web pages, e-mail and listserves to update their professional knowledge. At the same time, large numbers were unaware of Internet-based resources. Also, Internet access and protected time for professional reading and study varied by practice location (metropolitan vs nonmetropolitan). CONCLUSION: Knowledge gaps regarding the Internet and lack of uniform Internet access among Australian radiographers must be addressed so that all radiographers can benefit from the professional information available online.