The Role of a Professional Radiographic Society
(This document is to be used merely as a guideline and is not prescriptive)
Every Society is managed differently. A professional radiographic association usually represents its’
members and may be responsible for any/all of their professional, educational, public and workplace
interests. Some societies are more involved with education including offering formal continuing
education programs compared to some other societies. Some play an active role in industrial matters. A
society, that is a professional organisation representing radiographers, should strive to advance the
art, science and practice of radiography in the context of their national and community requirements.
Societies may engage in issues relating to education, legislation, conditions of service, development of
policies and protocols:
Education
- address educational needs of the profession
- engage tertiary institutions to offer appropriate courses and where considered appropriate it may
have an accreditation role of such courses.
- play gatekeeper for educational issues/lead opinion on professional issues
- get involved in/ offer professional advancement opportunities for its members eg role extension
- advise on career pathways and curricula
- provide continuing professional development (CPD) activities
- undertake research /provide research facilities- so as to encourage members to use research in
their practice and to promote knowledge and to publish the results of all such study and research
Conditions of Service
- assess workforce conditions – advise on possible workforce development to alleviate shortage of
skills
- address conditions of service eg salary issues if considered appropriate
Legislation
- seek professional recognition from governments
- input into statutory bodies regarding governance of the profession and licensing of radiographers
- advise on scope of practice if this is appropriate
- request scholarships/learnerships from government to address workforce issues
- liaise with department of health on radiographic issues- particularly on matters of radiation safety
- provide information regarding radiation protection issues to ensure that imaging professionals work
in a safe environment
- provide input into statutory documents regarding the profession
Networking
- promote/advertise the profession
- liaise with other health professionals/professional bodies local and international
- produce publications – journals, newsletters
- provide information for patients - ensure that patients receive the best possible care
- recruit potential students
- assist / advise students – provide mentorship if necessary
- work closely with industry – industry can collaborate to access knowledge, experience and expertise
from members. Provide input in product development.
Policies/protocols
- develop policies
- compile protocols
- compile guidelines for quality assurance
- develop codes of conduct and ethics
- assist with guidelines for contracts between employers and members
September 2009
ISRRT 001
First Edition