AN EXPLORATION OF THE CAPACITY FOR RESEARCH ACTIVITY AND INVOLVEMENT OF NON-MEDICAL RADIOLOGY STAFF WORKING WITHIN A LARGE UK NHS TRUST
By Eleanor Butterfield, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust
Aims:
Evidence-based research can redefine healthcare practices, particularly those within the dynamic field of medical imaging. However, research engagement among non-medical radiology staff is low, with a tendency to focus on clinical responsibilities. Increased research involvement can enhance the quality, safety, and progress of the profession. This study explored the research capacity and involvement of non-medical staff within a Radiology Department across a UK NHS Trust.
Methods:
A survey was distributed via email and in person, examining organisational, team, and individual perceptions of research capacity and capability. Descriptive statistics summarised Likert scale responses, while Independent T-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests evaluated differences in responses between sites. Latent analysis identified themes from free-text responses.
Results:
With an 18.4% response rate, no significant differences in response scores were found between the two Trust sites. Individual perception scores were higher than those at organisational and team levels. Key motivators included career and skill development, and job satisfaction (>75%). Major barriers were a lack of time (65%), other work commitments (62.5%), and insufficient knowledge. One-third of respondents were uninterested in research, and 64.9% did not view research as part of their job role. Despite the team leader's support, communication about research was deemed inadequate. Themes of ‘how’ and ‘when’ (barriers), and ‘service’ and ‘self’ (motivators) emerged from free-text responses.
Conclusion:
While individual level responses indicated more confidence than at team and organisational levels, professionals lacked the necessary time, skills and knowledge for involvement. Many did not see research as part of their role, despite job descriptions indicating otherwise. Staff recognised the benefits of research for improving service quality and personal career development. This study highlights the need for protected time and support to foster a positive research culture, echoing previous findings in Allied Health Profession literature. Encouraging research engagement among Radiology staff will benefit professionals, patients, and the profession.