EVALUATING THE READINESS OF RADIOGRAPHERS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE ROLE OF FILM REPORTING AND RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

ABSTRACT: Background: Advanced radiography practice, particularly in film reporting and radiological anatomy, has emerged as a practical strategy for addressing radiologist shortages and improving diagnostic imaging services. However, the readiness of Nigerian radiographers to undertake these expanded roles remains inadequately understood. This study evaluated the readiness of radiographers for advanced practice, with emphasis on radiological anatomy knowledge, film reporting competence, curricular preparedness, and the perceived need for professional specialisation. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed among 110 radiographers. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising demographic information, a radiological anatomy knowledge test, and Likert-scale items assessing readiness, curricular factors, and barriers to advanced practice. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, chi-square test, analysis of variance, and multiple regression were used for data analysis at a 5% level of significance. Results: The findings revealed a moderate level of radiological anatomy knowledge, with a mean score of 63.2%, while self-perceived readiness for advanced practice was also moderate (film reporting: mean = 2.79/5; radiological anatomy specialisation: mean = 2.74/5). Knowledge was not significantly associated with years of clinical experience, and self-rated confidence showed only a weak positive relationship with objective knowledge. Undergraduate preparation emerged as the strongest predictor of readiness for advanced practice, whereas formal post-qualification training was significantly associated with current involvement in reporting activities. Respondents identified inadequate image-based learning, limited supervised reporting opportunities, insufficient postgraduate training, and the absence of a formal advanced practice framework as major barriers. Conclusion: The study concluded that although Nigerian radiographers possess moderate knowledge, significant curricular, educational, and regulatory deficiencies limit their preparedness. It recommends strengthening undergraduate radiography curricula through enhanced radiological anatomy and image interpretation training, establishing accredited postgraduate programmes in film reporting and radiological anatomy, and developing a national advanced practice framework to support role expansion and improve diagnostic imaging services in Nigeria. Keywords: Advanced radiography practice, film reporting, radiological anatomy, readiness, curriculum, radiographers.