Workplace communication experiences of internationally recruited radiographers (IRR): A phenomenological study

Internationally recruited radiographers (IRR) continue to make valuable contributions to the UK healthcare. They make up 20-25% of the UK workforce, yet communication remains a significant challenge to their workplace integration and well-being. These issues contribute to stress, reduced job satisfaction, and poor interprofessional collaboration, which adversely affect patient care and safety. This study aimed to identify communication challenges faced by IRRs, their impact, coping strategies adopted, and the support they need to navigate communication challenges.

This study adopted a descriptive phenomenological design for data collection. Ten ethnically diverse overseas NHS radiographers were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. They were interviewed via Microsoft Teams, using a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach.

Three central themes emerged: 1) communication challenges are multifaceted, 2) the impact extends beyond workplace interactions, and 3) navigating challenges requires personal effort and organisational support. The primary factors influencing IRRs' communication experiences were cultural differences, bias, and nuances in the UK cultural and geographical communication style. Communication challenges also impact workplace integration and the efficiency of IRRs, with recommendations made to support effective navigation.

The findings highlight the need for culturally informed leadership and teams, training of IRRs in communication nuances, and mentorship to include NHS-experienced overseas radiographers. A supportive work culture was recommended as an invaluable tool in improving IRRs' workplace experiences, facilitating integration, and enhancing retention in the NHS.

There is a need for UK health institutions to develop cultural competence training, lived experience radiographers in mentorship roles, and an inclusive environment to reduce the impact of poor experiences on staff well-being, patient care/practice, and retention.