Understanding the Professional Socialisation of Omani Radiographers

Abstract

The structure of the health system in Oman has developed at a rapid pace, such that some facilities are now comparable with those of developed countries. Radiology departments have largely developed from small units to large ones, housed in modern and state-of-the-art departments with modern radiographic imaging modality services and up-to-date technologies. The radiography services in hospitals have expanded to include advanced imaging modalities such as Magnetic Imaging Resonances (MRI), Radionuclide Imaging (RNI), cardiovascular imaging, Radiotherapy, Cardiac CT, Oncology CT, Radiology Information system (RIS) and Picture Archiving Communication Systems (PACS). The delivery of the best quality of radiography services is hindered, however, by the MoH being the main agency in the health care system that issue regulations and policies. In addition, Omani radiographers function outside of any professional regulations. This study is therefore undertaken to explore the lived experience of the professional socialisation of Omani radiographers. Through exploring the radiographers’ lived experience in constructing their professional identity, describing the process of constructing thier professional role identity, and understanding how professional socialisation affects professional commitment. The study involved interviews with 19 radiographers and analysis of contextual material. The interviews were conducted face-to-face, in Arabic, using a phenomenological approach. The data from the translated transcripts were managed and coded using Nvivo 10 software. A thematic analysis approach was adopted to analyse the data. The analysis of the data revealed three main categories: Omani radiography practice in context, radiography culture and working life in Oman, and the professional identity of Omani radiographers. The outcomes of the study of the Omani radiographers’ lived experience revealed ineffective systems and regulations, an absence of structures to guide and support radiographers in their professional development, a poorly defined culture, and inconsistent leadership and management in radiography departments. In conclusion, the findings disclosed a complex and negative socialisation process that undermines Omani radiographers’ attempts to be recognised as professionals.