Building research culture in clinical practice: Experience from clinical practice - A hospital experience

Research in radiography has typically been performed in traditional educational teaching facilities, but in Denmark, there has been a focus on promoting research in clinical practice. Radiography research projects in clinical practice can have a huge impact on the radiography profession, including patient care, image quality and diagnostics. In Nordic countries, students obtain a bachelor's degree in Radiography, and it can be a challenge to continue the educational pathway for a Master of Science degree. With this paper, we would like to focus on the importance of providing all the radiography workforce opportunities to enter the career path of research. This paper aims to provide a framework and inspiration for clinical staff to start providing research opportunities for radiographers working in clinical practice without a master's degree.

Four clinical radiographers (bachelor's degree level) without prior experience in research projects participated in a one-year research trainee opportunity. Individual learning progress was monitored with milestones relevant to the research project. Regular supervision throughout the project period was mandatory and provided by the head of research. The training program offered one day per week working with research projects and the remaining four days working regular hours in clinical practice.

A total of four clinical radiographers completed a one-year research training program. Two have continued working with research projects, and one has started obtaining a master's of science degree.

Integrating research training in clinical practice strengthens the radiography profession, and expanding academic pathways supports research careers. Strong management engagement is essential to establishing a research culture within the clinical department. Building a research culture is resource-intensive, but it can be a way to start promoting the profession.