The status of forensic radiography in the Nordic Countries: Results from the 2020 IAFR questionnaire

Abstract

• The status of forensic imaging in the Nordic countries was evaluated. • The survey covered the Nordic countries: Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Iceland. • There was significant amount of case work in the Nordic countries involving forensic radiography. • There are areas where training, guidelines and protocols can be improved. The International Association of Forensic Radiographers (IAFR) aims to promote best practice in forensic radiography through education and training, research, communication and coordination of forensic radiography. To survey the situation of these areas a questionnaire was sent in 2020 to all institutes of forensic medicine in the Nordic countries (Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Iceland) to clarify the current status of forensic radiography. Results showed the role of forensic radiography in the Nordic countries appeared to be in the early stages of development with a distinctive lack of standardised guidelines, formalised training, an absence of national associations, and little involvement with international associations in forensic radiography. This was despite a significant amount of case work having been undertaken within forensic departments as well as within clinical settings, including work involving both deceased and living individuals. The insights gained through this questionnaire provided focus on the areas that could be targeted for further development and may facilitate strategies to promote best practice and training needs for practitioners of forensic radiography within the Nordic countries.