Who are we? What are we? A 30 years follow up

Abstract

Objective A presentation at the 1987 NZIMRT conference “Who Am I? What Am I?”(1) arose from an informal study which explored medical imaging technologists (MIT) professional image. In 2018 an attempt was made to replicate the study and compare the results. Method Using an anthropomorphology approach, informal studies were conducted with small samples of MIT participants. A visual metaphor, a picture of an x-ray tube, was used to characterise human attributes.(2) Results The study findings continue to suggest that the person described was a hard worker, solid, stable, practical and reliable. However, they may feel limited in what they could do and want to know the results of what they are doing. The person might also be seen as a ‘people’s person’. These results tend to concur with published research that the medical imaging technology professional identity is dual in nature, technical and patient oriented. (3) Discussion This outcome is concurrent with a growing body of international research within medical imaging which explores the complexity of the medical imaging profession. However, the technical nature of the practice is also described as being, at times, in conflict with patient-oriented care.(4) How we promote ourselves and what we call ourselves; radiographer, MRT or MIT, may also contribute to mixed messages professionally. Conclusion The professional image of the MIT may not necessarily be what we think it is or how we describe ourselves, but what other people see in us, and more importantly what we make them see. References 1. Sweeney R. Who am I? What am I? Shadows: New Zealand Journal of Medical Radiation Technology. 1988;31(1):22-4. 2. Delbaere M, McQuarrie EF, Phillips BJ. Personification in advertising: using a visual metaphor to trigger anthropomorphism. Journal of Advertising. 2011;40(1):121. 3. Murphy FJ. The paradox of imaging technology: A review of the literature. Radiography. 2006;12(2):169-74. 4. Egestad H. Characteristics of good practice - how to be a good radiographer. The Radiographer: The Official Journal of the Australian Institute of Radiography. 2008;55(2):12-6.