Remote x-ray operator radiography: a case study in interprofessional rural clinical practice

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Rural Health
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Radiographic examinations in rural Australia are sometimes performed by nurses and general practitioners (GPs) when radiographers are unavailable.
• This practice, known as remote x-ray operator radiography, addresses healthcare access challenges in underserved regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the experiences and perceptions of remote x-ray operator radiography.
• To understand the perspectives of rural radiographers, nurses, and GPs in New South Wales regarding this practice.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 radiographers, 10 nurses, and 7 GPs.
• Interviews explored knowledge, opinions, values, experience, behavior, attitudes, and feelings about remote operator radiography.

Main Results:

• Three key concepts emerged: "Dimensions of Practice," "Service Provision and Equity of Access," and "Professional Roles and Relationships."
• Remote operators offer a valuable service, but radiography quality is below expected standards.
• Interprofessional collaboration is hindered by hierarchical relationships, despite potential benefits from teamwork.

Conclusions:

• Remote x-ray operator radiography operates at the intersection of rural radiographers', nurses', and GPs' professional domains.
• Improving service quality requires addressing challenges in teamwork and interprofessional collaboration.
• Findings may inform the development of improved healthcare models for rural and remote settings.