RAHPC - Professions
Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences
Published: Jul 31, 2024 8:49 AMMedical Imaging previously referred to as Radiography is a unique medical profession that involves both clinical and technical knowledge and skills. It is a field that applies science, arts and technology. The areas of practice and specialty in radiography include diagnostic imaging and Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Diagnostic ultrasound, Nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, management, medical physics (radiation protection) and information technology (imaging informatics). These are well spelt out in the roles of the radiological technologist, which are patient care, the use of technology, optimization of radiation dose, clinical responsibility, management, quality assurance and research.
The Medical Imaging Practitioner or Radiological Technologist has knowledge related to technology that is needed to make decision, solve problems and extend human capabilities. The minimum requirement for professional practice in medical imaging is a bachelor’s degree, below that, there are sub-family practices for instance advanced diploma and certificate qualifications which are also recognised.
The field of medical imaging has been growing and expanding rapidly with the advances in radiological technology and to catch up with the trends, advanced degree curricula were introduced to cater for the innovative advancements in radiological technology. Therefore depending on the level of training and technology the clinical and technical skill have grown to cope up with current needs and demand for health service delivery world over.