Digitalization in my field of expertise
I currently work as a radiography teacher, but this is a relatively recent career change, so I decided to approach this assignment from the perspective of a radiographer. I graduated as a radiographer in 2013 and worked at a university hospital for 10 years.
Digitalization has reshaped the role of radiographers also. Previously used film-based imaging techniques have been replaced by digital systems. Digital imaging has enabled much faster imaging and diagnostics. The film development process was slow and prone to errors, whereas digital images can be taken, processed, and shared immediately. This has made the work significantly more efficient and fast-paced.
I have only worked in the field during the digital imaging era, but even within digital imaging, there have been significant advances over the past years. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have brought new opportunities to the work of radiographers and to radiology in general. Automated systems speed up and simplify tasks such as patient positioning and imaging planning. AI can also influence image reading, allowing us to achieve the same image quality with lower radiation dose. AI-based systems also reduce the likelihood of human error and speed up the patient diagnosis process.
Digitalization has also enabled teleradiology, which enables the analysis and interpretation of X-ray images remotely. This allows radiologists to examine images and provide reports regardless of their physical location. This is particularly useful in areas where there is a shortage of radiologists. Of course, remote connections have also introduced new challenges to patient safety and data security. As all the patient information is online, there is always a risk of cyberattacks or the misuse of patient information. To ensure patient sefety, it is crucial to protect the data effectively, and ensure that only authorized personnel can access it.
Allthough technology is improving rapidly, it doesn’t mean that AI will replace radiographers. Rather, it serves as a support in their work, particularly helping in routine tasks. Nevertheless, rapid development does place new demands on radiographers’ workmanship, as they must master the use of new technologies, which requires continuous training.
Chat GPT
I asked ChatGPT “What radiation protection methods are used in X-ray imaging?” The response was surprisingly good, but the information about the use of external radiation shields for patients was outdated. The Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority published a new recommendation on the use of radiation shields for patients in 2024, and ChatGPT’s knowledge only extends to 2022. This is important to keep in mind, especially when using the free version of ChatGPT. My second question was about MRI imaging, and the response to that was entirely accurate.
Self evaluation
Digitalization and technology have transformed healthcare immensely, and the development continues at a rapid pace. From a teacher’s perspective, it is also quite challenging to keep up with the pace and stay informed about the latest advancements when not actively working in the field. Looking forward, I’m very excited to see what the future holds in my line of work, imaging. I’m also eager to learn more, especially in the field of AI.
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