City Research Online

Abstract

Introduction
The current technological developments in medical imaging are centred largely on the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into all equipment modalities. This survey assessed the perspectives of African radiographers on the integration of AI in medical imaging in order to offer unique recommendations to support the training of the radiography workforce.

Methods
An exploratory cross-sectional online survey of radiographers working within Africa was conducted from March to August 2020. The survey obtained data about their demographics and perspectives on AI implementation and usage. Data obtained were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results
A total of 1020 valid responses were obtained. Majority of the respondents (n = 883,86.6%) were working in general X-ray departments. Of the respondents, 84.9% (n = 866) indicated that AI technology would improve radiography practice and quality assurance for efficient diagnosis and improved clinical care. Fear of job losses following the implementation of AI was a key concern of most radiographers (n = 625,61.3%).

Conclusion
Generally, radiographers were delighted about the integration of AI into medical imaging, however; there were concerns about job security and lack of knowledge. There is an urgent need for stakeholders in medical imaging infrastructure development and practices in Africa to start empowering radiographers through training programmes, funding, motivational support, and create clear roadmaps to guide the adoption and integration of AI in medical imaging in Africa.

Implication for practice
The current study offers unique suggestions and recommendations to support the training of the African radiography workforce and others in similar resource-limited settings to provide quality care using AI-integrated imaging modalities.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© 2021. This manuscript version is made available under the CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Publisher Keywords:	Artificial intelligence, Medical imaging, Radiography, Africa, Online surveys, Humans, Radiography, Cross-Sectional Studies, Artificial Intelligence, Allied Health Personnel, Radiology Department, Hospital, Africa, Artificial intelligence, Medical imaging, Online surveys, Radiography, Allied Health Personnel, Artificial Intelligence, Cross-Sectional Studies, Humans, Radiography, Radiology Department, Hospital, 1103 Clinical Sciences, Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging
Subjects:	D History General and Old World > DT Africa Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA75 Electronic computers. Computer science R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Midwifery & Radiography
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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