Assessment of Radiological Practices: Knowledge of Irradiation, Medical Imaging Prescriptions, and Clinical Imaging Referral Guidelines among Physicians
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Abstract
Clinical imaging guidelines (CIGs) serve as valuable tools for improving the justification of imaging procedures among physicians.
Objective: This study aims to assess physicians' knowledge regarding irradiation, their self-perception of imaging prescriptions, and the utilization of CIGs.
Materials and Methods: A questionnaire comprising 21 items was self-administered to 155 referring physicians working in seven university-affiliated hospitals . The questionnaire covered aspects such as imaging referral practices, the use and need for CIGs, knowledge of radiation doses for specific radiologic procedures, and awareness of the harmful effects of radiation. Scores were assigned to each question to gauge participants' knowledge.
Results: Out of 180 administered questionnaires, 155 were completed (86.1% response rate). Participants included 90 (58%) females, 63 (40.64%) specialists, 53 (34.20%) residents/interns, and 39 (25.16%) general practitioners, with an average professional experience of 7.4 years (ranging from 1 to 25 years). The mean knowledge score was 11.5 out of 59, with no significant influence of sex, years of experience, or professional category. Users of CIGs scored higher than non-users (means 14.2 versus 10.6; p < 0.01). Most physicians (80%) underestimated radiation doses for routine imaging exams. About half of the participants were aware of CIGs, with half of them utilizing these guidelines. Criteria such as "impact on diagnosis" and "impact on treatment decision" were commonly used for justifying imaging requests, while unjustified requests often stemmed from "patient expectation or will" or "research motivations." The majority (96%) of interviewees believed that the availability of national CIGs would improve justification practices.
Conclusion: The study highlights a lack of awareness among physicians regarding radiation doses for routine imaging procedures. While some physicians are familiar with CIGs, there is a general consensus on the potential benefits of national CIGs in improving the justification of imaging procedures. Continuous training on radiation protection and the implementation of national CIGs are recommended to enhance practices in this area.
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