Radiographers warn against patronising unapproved diagnostic centres  

In commemoration of the 2021 World Radiography Day, some radiographers have advised Nigerians to patronise only approved diagnostic centres/facilities for all radio diagnosis services.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the theme for the 2021 WRD is: “The Role of Radiographer In A Pandemic”.

Mr Ayodele Okhiria, a former President of the Association of Radiographers of Nigeria (ARN), said that patronising unapproved diagnostic centres had negative consequences.

Okhiria spoke while delivering a keynote address at a lecture organised by the ARN, Lagos State Chapter, in commemoration of the ‘2021 World Radiography Day (WRD)’ in Lagos.

He appealed to the masses to endeavour to go to standard and accredited hospitals with X-Ray facilities, competent and licensed professionals.

According to him, X-Ray radiation is dangerous to living cells if handled by quack doctors; as it can cause more harm to the patient.

Okhiria, also the Chairman of the occasion, warned Nigerians against patronising quack doctors, advising that they should not compromise their health for any reason.

“The masses should endeavour to visit standard and accredited health facilities for proper medical treatment and diagnosis because the consequences could be immense when X-rays are handled by unqualified and incompetent personnel.

“The masses have the right to demand for the licence of the radiographer who is dispensing radiation services to them.

“And failure of the radiographer to present the qualifications, you have the right to report that health facility to the regulatory body – Radiographers Registrations Board of Nigeria and alike for appropriate action and sanctions,” he said.

Also, Mr Femi Olagunju, the Guest Speaker at the event , said that radiographers have critical roles to play during pandemics, urging them to always prioritise the health and safety of patients.

Olagunju said that radiographers should implement the recommendations of diagnosis based on the equipment availability.

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“Radiographers should bear in mind that recommendations for imaging depend on severity and symptoms.

“They should always consider the potential harms from exposure to ionizing radiation, in particular for pregnant women and children.

“And always ensure that the image quality is maintained before leaving the patient,” Olagunju said.

Earlier, the Chairman of ARN Lagos State Chapter, Mrs Opeoluwa Oduwole, said the purpose of World Radiography Day was to raise public awareness of radiographic imaging and therapy.

Oduwole said radiography plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and the treatment of patients; hence improving the quality of patient care.

According to her, the radiography day is celebrated annually on Nov.8, to mark the anniversary of the discovery of X-rays in 1895.

“The role of a radiographer in a pandemic is apt.

“The spread of COVID-19 shocked the world and posed obvious challenges in the diagnosis and management.

“It altered the practice of medicine. Radiographers were not left out in the struggle to effect diagnosis, determine pathophysiology, monitor treatment and confirm cure.

“Conventional X-rays, Computed Tomography and Ultrasonography had effectively been deployed in respect of the above; they have played tremendous role in Covid-19 management,” she said.