Developing a Competency Framework for Advanced Radiographic Technology Practice

Thesis Abstract

The rapid evolution of radiographic technology and increasing complexity of imaging procedures necessitate the development of a structured competency framework to guide advanced practice among radiographers. Despite the critical role that advanced radiographic practitioners play in diagnostic accuracy, patient safety, and healthcare delivery, there is currently no standardized, context-specific competency model to delineate requisite skills, knowledge, and attitudes for such practitioners. This study aims to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based competency framework tailored for advanced radiographic practice to enhance professional standards, inform policy, and support curriculum development. The primary objectives of this research include identifying core competencies required for advanced radiographic practitioners, exploring existing competency models internationally, and developing a contextualized framework through empirical validation. The study employs a mixed-methods sequential exploratory design, beginning with a qualitative phase to capture expert perspectives and stakeholder insights, followed by a quantitative phase to validate the proposed framework. In the qualitative phase, phenomenological interviews will be conducted with a purposive sample of 25 experienced radiographers practicing at advanced levels, radiology department managers, educators, and policymakers. Thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke’s approach will identify key competency domains. Concurrently, an extensive review of international competency standards—such as the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) framework—and relevant theoretical models, including Benner’s Novice to Expert theory and the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) framework, will inform the development of a preliminary competency model. A synthesis of these sources will generate an initial draft of the framework. The quantitative phase will involve a survey administered to a stratified random sample of 200 radiographers identified as practicing at advanced levels across multiple healthcare institutions. The survey instrument, developed based on qualitative findings and international standards, will utilize a Likert-scale to measure the importance and proficiency levels of identified competencies. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) will assess the construct validity of the framework, and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients will establish internal consistency. Data analysis will be conducted using SPSS 27 and AMOS, with descriptive statistics summarizing competency perceptions and exploratory data informing further refinement of the framework. The anticipated findings are a validated competency framework componentized into domains such as clinical decision-making, technical proficiency, research and evidence-based practice, professional ethics, leadership, and communication. The CFA is expected to confirm the structural validity of these domains, with high reliability coefficients (above 0.80). The framework will delineate core and advanced-level competencies, emphasizing ongoing professional development. This research advances knowledge by filling the gap in context-specific competency models for advanced radiographic practice within the regional healthcare setting, aligning practice standards with international benchmarks, and furnishing a practical tool for accreditation, curriculum planning, and competency-based assessments. The study also contributes to theoretical discourse by integrating Benner’s developmental model with CBME principles within radiography. In conclusion, the study recommends the implementation of the developed competency framework to standardize advanced radiographic training, inform policy directives, and enhance clinical practice. Future research should explore longitudinal assessment of competency development and adaptation of the framework for emerging imaging technologies. Overall, this framework aims to strengthen the professionalism, accountability, and quality of advanced radiographic practice, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and healthcare service delivery.