Unearthing the research demographics of Australian medical radiation practitioners

Elizabeth Brown, Minh Chau, Rachael Beldham-Collins, Nigel Anderson

Research output: Contribution to journalMeeting Abstractpeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: Rapid, ongoing technological advances has seen an increased need for medical radiation practitioners (MRPs) to develop research skills.1 The aim of this study was to ascertain the current research demographics of Australian MRPs, determine perceived barriers to participating in research to establish needs-based initiatives to support MRPs in undertaking research into the future.

Methods: A quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional survey of Australian MRPs using an electronic survey tool was distributed between November and December 2020. Participants were recruited via an invitation email to Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy members.

Results: A total of 431 participants responded to the survey, representing 2.3% of all Australian MRPs. Most respondents had a bachelor’s degree or higher (71.9%); 8.4% had a postgraduate research qualification (PhD 3.2%, professional doctorate 0.7%, master’s degree 4.5%); 15.4% plan to undertake postgraduate research in the future, with 68.2% having no plans for postgraduate research study. Respondents blamed lack of time (47.0%), lack of interest (33.4%), cost (24.2%) and workplace support (23.9%) as contributing factors as to why they are yet to undertake postgraduate research.

Conclusion: An encouraging increase in the number of MRPs who have been awarded or will be awarded a postgraduate degree was found over recent decades. However, many still indicate a lack of interest in being actively involved in research. Targeted support mechanisms need to be implemented to address perceived barriers to continue to unite Australian MRPs in becoming an internationally recognised research force.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)15-15
Number of pages1
JournalJournal of Medical Radiation Sciences
Volume69
Issue numberS1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2022
Externally publishedYes
EventASMIRT 2022 - 16th National Conference - Annual Scientific Meeting of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy: Unite ‐ the land, the sea, the people - Cairns, Cairns, Australia
Duration: 19 May 202222 May 2022

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