Assistant radiographer practitioners: Creating capacity or challenging professional boundaries?

Area of Science:

• Radiography
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The Assistant Radiographer Practitioner (ARP) role was introduced to increase capacity in NHS diagnostic imaging departments.
• Implementation of the ARP role has lacked standardization, with limited understanding of their current scope in general radiography.
• This study addresses the need for clarity on the evolving scope of practice for ARPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current scope of practice for Assistant Radiographer Practitioners (ARPs) in UK diagnostic imaging departments.
• To identify variations in ARP roles, supervision levels, and limitations.
• To explore the potential for expanding the ARP role within radiography.

Main Methods:

• An electronic survey was distributed to ARPs in UK diagnostic imaging departments.
• The survey collected data on demographics, scope of practice (patient groups, anatomical regions, imaging locations), limitations, supervision, and additional roles.
• Both open and closed questions were utilized to gather comprehensive information.

Main Results:

• 108 ARPs responded, with most sites employing three or fewer ARPs in general radiography.
• The majority of ARPs image both adults and children, covering a broad anatomical range.
• Supervision levels varied, with some ARPs empowered to check referrals or images post-acquisition.

Conclusions:

• Assistant Radiographer Practitioners are crucial for maintaining capacity in imaging departments.
• Evidence suggests that many ARPs are practicing beyond the scope originally defined by professional bodies.
• There is significant potential for further expansion and standardization of the ARP role.