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Therapeutic radiographer prescribing practices in the United Kingdom: Questionnaire survey
K Crowther1, N Carey2, S McFadden3
1School Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Belfast, York Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK; Accuray Incorporated, 1240 Deming Way, Madison, WI, USA.
Introduction:
Non-medical professionals in the United Kingdom (UK) have been granted prescribing rights to improve patient care quality and cost-effectiveness. There is limited evidence on how therapeutic radiographer prescribers have impacted medicine management or patient services.
Methods:
An online survey was conducted amongst non-medical prescribing therapeutic radiographers in the UK between 2019 and 2022. The study teams initially analysed the individual data sets, subsequently combined, and secondary analysis was performed to provide a UK perspective, to understand the services provided and identify areas for improvement. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics from Microsoft Excel® and SPSS®.
Results:
74 non-medical prescribing therapeutic radiographers who were predominantly over 40 years old and in full-time work participated. The main job categories were consultant radiographers (n = 23, 31.1%) and advanced practice practitioners (n = 18, 24.3%). Many use their prescribing qualifications (87.5%, n = 62), issuing a mean of 15 independent and seven items by supplementary and prescribing per week. Most received assessment and diagnostic skills training before prescribing courses (91.6%, n = 67). Respondents prescribed from a median of six areas, with the highest being in GI (82%), skin (68%), infections (58%), urinary tract disorders (55%) and ear, nose, and oropharynx conditions (54%).
Conclusion:
This study presents the first report on therapeutic radiographers prescribing in the UK, offering insights into current practices and highlighting the success of non-medical prescribing. Therapeutic radiographers' roles continue to expand into advanced practice and medicine-prescribing responsibilities, contributing to holistic and patient-centred care.
Implications For Practice:
The results are relevant for nations grappling with oncology workforce shortages and contemplating similar roles for therapeutic radiographers. The study can be a valuable resource for policymakers and healthcare organisations worldwide.
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