Information value for Radiographers

Abstract

This study aimed to analyse radiographers’ access to patient clinical information in the context of clinical practice in Portugal. Through a questionnaire applied to participants at the XX Congresso Nacional da ATARP (2023), it was found that a significant proportion of professionals (66.9%) identified limitations in accessing clinical data essential for a safe and effective performance of radiological examinations. Although most participants have access to the Electronic Clinical Record (67.6%), only a small percentage consider the available information to be sufficient. Statistically significant differences were also identified between the public and private sectors, both in terms of access to information [X2(1)=8.274; p=0.004; FI=0.251] and knowledge about data protection [X2(1)=6.477; p=0.011; FI=0.222]. The absence of relevant clinical data, such as a history of allergies or active infections, poses a risk to the safety of patients and professionals and compromises the quality of care provided. This study highlights the importance of adequate and ethical access to clinical information by radiographers, promoting and suggesting continuous training and appropriate institutional policies.