Changing Roles of a Radiographer in Fluoroscopy:

Literature Review to Guide the Development and Practice of Fluoroscopic Studies in Zambia

Abstract

Fluoroscopic imaging services in Zambia have been available since 1972 when the first equipment was installed at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH). However, there is limited fluoroscopy equipment use due to a critical shortage of radiologists who are traditionally trained to carry out this role. Radiologists work alongside radiographers who provide technical support and patient care. To address the shortage of radiologists, radiographers in the United Kingdom (UK) have explicitly expanded their scope of practice and started performing and reporting on fluoroscopic examinations such as barium swallow, barium meal, small bowel follow-through, barium enema, and videofluoroscopy after undergoing appropriate training. Literature from the UK shows that gastrointestinal (GI) radiographers’ performance is of a high-quality standard. The initiative has been very effective and made a significant contribution to the delivery of fluoroscopic services in that country. Therefore, the aim of this article was to review the literature on role extension for GI radiographers to guide the development and practice of fluoroscopic studies in Zambia. It is anticipated that this article will bring awareness to stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health (MOH), Schools of Radiography, the Radiological Society of Zambia (RSZ), and the Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) on this important subject.