Comparative Analysis of Global Access to Computed Tomography (CT) Services: Radiographers’ Experiences in Ireland and Sub-Saharan Africa
| dc.contributor.author | Creedon, Jill | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2024-11-01T12:17:12Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2024-11-01T12:17:12Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2024 | |
| dc.description.abstract | Background: Nigatu et al. (2023) reported only 14% of developing countries have one CT scanner per million inhabitants, compared with 100% of developed countries. This research aims to address access disparities in CT imaging between developed and developing regions, taking Ireland and Sub-Saharan Africa as representative regions. The research examines the user experience of CT radiographers in each region to determine whether demographic and contextual factors may influence the user experience and/or access to CT imaging services. The research subsequently seeks to assess whether region-specific solutions could address access issues and usability challenges in each region, while advocating for inclusivity in medical imaging equipment design. Methodology: This research employed a positivist framework and an abductive approach to examine the user experience of CT radiographers in Ireland and Sub-Saharan Africa. This was achieved through a semi-structured online questionnaire containing 30/31 questions which covered attitude, behavioural, classification and pre-coding questions. The questionnaire contained primarily closed questions, with some optional open questions to add contextual information, and covered demographic and contextual factors, usability assessments and ranking questions to address critical needs and priorities. The questionnaire was sent to CT radiographers in Ireland and SSA via social media and email distribution, achieving 52 responses in total, 31 from Ireland and 21 from Sub-Saharan Africa. Results: Several notable commonalities and differences were observed between the examined regions, both in terms of CT system usability and accessibility. However, the increased abundance of CT scanners in Ireland relative to SSA meant their shared challenges were of differing impacts in each region. Radiographers in both regions were generally satisfied with their overall user experience, although they identified both shared and unique areas for improvement when asked. Both cohorts identified issues with CT scanner hardware, particularly the scan table weight limit and gantry bore size. Others identified confusing or problematic user interface features. The most significant differences were in respondents’ rankings of critical needs and priorities, specifically CT access barriers, CT-related issues, and CT system features. Radiographers in Ireland were primarily concerned with workforce and training-related issues, as well as achieving diagnostic and technical accuracy. In contrast, radiographers in SSA were focused on financial and infrastructural challenges, also demonstrating a strong commitment to patient-centred care. Conclusion: This research underscores the need to implement region-specific strategies to enhance CT imaging services in both regions, with a focus on addressing their most critical needs and priorities rather than focusing on usability challenges. This is essential to improve patient care in both regions and ensure that progress is made toward achieving equitable healthcare. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14136/214 | |
| dc.title | Comparative Analysis of Global Access to Computed Tomography (CT) Services: Radiographers’ Experiences in Ireland and Sub-Saharan Africa |