Reporting radiographer academy training model; an evaluation of the impact for trainees and clinical service

Introduction: Demand on imaging services continues to increase on a background of complex issues and barriers to care. Collaborative cross organisational working through the development of imaging networks is recommended to address these issues including managing reporting workloads. Standardisation of reporting practices and collaborative cross region reporting radiographer training has been recommended to be supported by a regional reporting radiographer academy model to achieve these aims. This research explores the perceptions of trainees and their managers/mentor who undertook radiographer academy training model with a view to integrated imaging network formalisation in the region. Methods: An online questionnaire was designed to capture qualitative and quantitative data with three phases; 1) trainees perception of the academy model, 2) trainees perception of the differences in training models and 3) the perceptions of the managers/mentors related to the academy model. Results: There were overwhelmingly positive opinions of the academy training model from both cohorts in this study, with the two main benefits emerging being the protected study time away from clinical departments and minimal disruption to clinical services due to reduced onus on the local mentors. Peer support was also highlighted as a positive aspect of the model which would facilitate future integrated imaging network working. Conclusion: The academy model has been well received by both cohorts in this study with positive outcomes highlighted and the model being seen as promoting and facilitating integrated imaging network working between departments. The small sample size of the study requires consideration when extrapolating the results to wider academy models, however some themes may be applicable. Implications for practice: Investment in the reporting radiographer academy model is justified and provides a practical alternative to the traditional model.