Qualitative content analysis of image interpretation education in UK pre-registration diagnostic radiography programmes

Introduction: Image interpretation is a required capability for all UK pre-registration programmes in diagnostic radiography to meet the needs of graduate practice.(1,2) It also provides a potential educational foundation for future advanced clinical practice. The aim of this study was to explore how image interpretation education is designed, delivered, and assessed within contemporary UK pre-registration diagnostic radiography programmes.

Methods: Qualitative content analysis of open-source image interpretation curriculum data extracted from UK Higher Education Institute (HEI) websites for all HCPC-approved diagnostic radiography programmes. Extracted search data
was initially coded and then identified into themes and sub-themes using thematic analysis.

Method: 34 pre-registration programmes across 27 UK HEIs were included in the study. There was marked variability in the open-source information available for analysis. Three overarching themes emerged; image interpretation
education vision, operationalisation, and delivery and assessment.

Conclusion: This study identified significant heterogeneity in all aspects of UK pre-registration image interpretation education which may suggest an equal heterogeneity can be expected in the image interpretation knowledge, skill,
confidence between newly registered practitioners. There may be a need for clearer expectations on HEIs by professional and regulatory bodies to ensure consistency in pre-registration image interpretation education.