An investigation into the clinical scope of practice of MRI reporting radiographers within the United Kingdom

Abstract

IntroductionRadiographers have been reporting Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examinations for over ten years, and there is an increasing body of evidence confirming the efficacy of this role expansion. However, little is known about the clinical scope of practice of radiographers undertaking this enhanced level of practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical scope of practice of MRI reporting radiographers within the United Kingdom (UK). MethodsMRI reporting radiographers who are actively reporting within the UK were invited to participate in a short online survey investigating the anatomical areas reported, clinical referral pathways and onward referral practices they routinely undertake. The survey was distributed via social media channels with snowball sampling encouraged. ResultsThere were n = 14 responses received, with an estimated response rate of 21.5%. The majority (93% n = 13/14) practised in England, with one response from Scotland. All participants (n = 14/14) undertook reporting of general practitioner (GP) and community healthcare practitioner's referrals, with 93% reporting for outpatient referrers. There was statistically significant variation in the anatomical areas reported when compared against those qualified less than two years and those qualified over ten years (p = 0.003). No other statistically significant variation was seen. ConclusionThere was no statistical difference in the implementation of MRI reporting by radiographers identified. All participants indicated reporting for GP and community healthcare practitioner referrers which align well with the implementation of community diagnostic centre rollout across the UK. Implication for practiceThis is believed to be the first study of its kind in the realm of MRI reporting. The study has suggested that MRI reporting radiographers are well placed to contribute to the rollout of community diagnostic centres within the UK.