A maturity matrix and actionable tool for implementing best practices within the radiography support workforce: a mixed methods synthesis.

Background

Radiology is a multidisciplinary specialty, combining the medical specialism of radiologists with the clinical expertise of diagnostic radiographers. Radiographers are skilled in performing imaging procedures such as X-Rays, ultrasound and computed tomography scans to diagnose and monitor conditions within a wide range of patient pathways, and they are assisted by support workers who enable service delivery by providing patient facing and ancillary activities. Imaging service demands in the United Kingdom continue to outpace growth in the radiographer workforce, and there is an urgent need to explore the potential for developing the capability and capacity of the imaging support workforce. A multi-centre mixed methods study investigated the determinants for the utilisation of the radiography support workforce in England, presenting the findings in a maturity matrix. A maturity matrix is an actionable tool which aims to facilitate practice improvements, presented as a series of distinct, iterative steps that showcase the desired developmental path towards an effective service.

Methods

The mixed methods study employed an explanatory sequential, multi-stage advanced framework design, involving six consecutive workstreams. The final workstream synthesised and integrated findings from the previous workstreams to identify the key factors that contribute to best practices in imaging support workforce deployment. Documentation of critical determinants and articulation of quality indicators were modelled into a maturity matrix to be used by imaging managers to review and plan the development of their support workforce.

Results

The Imaging Support Workforce Maturity Matrix is constructed as a means of tackling workforce improvements and tracking progress over time at service level. Fifteen critical determinants within three themed categories (evidence-based workforce planning; deployment; development and progression) were embedded within the matrix. Each determinant is presented for self-assessment against four levels of service maturity (Emerging, Developing, Maturing, and Thriving). These support assessment and action-planning towards the goal of fully developing the role and progression route for the support workforce.

Conclusion

The Imaging Support Workforce Maturity Matrix is presented. The actionable tool was reviewed with service managers in a first stage of validation and further research will be undertaken to implement appropriately across other allied health professions.