Involvement of radiographers in the interpretation and reporting of general radiographic images

Abstract

Globally, radiographers play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases. Radiographers have ample opportunities to encounter a wide variety of radiographic images throughout their training and careers. For this reason, radiographers are in a better position to communicate their radiographic observations to the referring clinician. However, there is a lack of clarity on the level of radiographers’ involvement in the interpretation and reporting of general radiographic images. Therefore, this educational article has identified and reviewed the three levels of involvement: abnormality detection system (red dot system), preliminary clinical evaluation (commentary reporting), and clinical reporting as identified from the literature. This information is important to the radiography profession and stakeholders in African countries planning to extend the role of a radiographer in image interpretation and reporting on general radiographic images.