CHALLENGES IN SETTING UP QUALITY CONTROL IN DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY FACILITIES IN NIGERIA

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Sciences
• Health Regulation

Background:

• The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) mandates quality control (QC) for diagnostic radiology equipment.
• QC is essential for authorizing diagnostic radiology facilities in Nigeria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current state of quality control practices for diagnostic radiology equipment in Nigeria.
• To identify challenges faced by facilities in implementing QC.

Main Methods:

• Measured key QC parameters (output, linearity, reproducibility) on X-ray machines.
• Administered questionnaires to evaluate QC test frequency and identify implementation challenges.

Main Results:

• Observed significant variations in measured QC parameters.
• Identified major challenges including inadequate management cooperation, lack of QC equipment, and insufficient staffing.
• Discrepancies noted between reported QC test frequencies and recommended standards.

Conclusions:

• Current QC implementation in Nigerian diagnostic radiology facilities is suboptimal.
• Personnel require further training on QC procedures and standards.
• Addressing identified challenges is crucial for improving diagnostic imaging quality and safety.