Obstacles of Patient Education in Medical Imaging; Radiographers’ Perspective in West of Iran in 2021

Abstract

Background: Teaching patients is one of the essential duties of radiographers. Proper implementation of patient education leads to improved efficiency of medical imaging processes, faster patient recovery, reduced costs and anxiety, and ultimately, greater patient satisfaction. Understanding barriers to patient education is crucial for managing these factors effectively. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 548 radiographers employed in hospitals in western Iran. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling method and provided informed consent to identify barriers to patient education in medical imaging from the radiographers' perspective. Data were collected using an online questionnaire addressing obstacles to patient education, which had confirmed validity and reliability (ɑ = 0.78). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 22, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among the participants, 77.2% held a bachelor's degree. The most significant barriers to patient education in medical imaging from the radiographers' perspective included a large number of patients (56.4%), lack of time (48.9%), insufficient hospital facilities (42.9%), shortage of manpower (41.8%), unfavorable physical and mental condition of patients (40.7%), and lack of responsibility among radiographers (33%). Conclusions: The barriers to patient education can be addressed by reducing radiographers' workload, enhancing their training skills, and equipping medical imaging centers with patient education facilities. Implementing these measures would improve the efficiency of imaging centers and promote better patient outcomes.