Trends that have influenced the Swedish radiography profession over the last four decades

Introduction: The expansion of the radiography profession in recent decades has widened the scope of radiographic practice. This has raised questions about which trends have had an impact on the profession over the years. The study aim was to explore trends that have influenced the radiography profession over the last four decades. Methods: A qualitative design was used. Eleven focus group interviews inspired by the Scenario Planning Method were conducted at 11 diagnostic radiology departments in public hospitals in Sweden. The target group consisted of 48 registered radiographers. To analyse the data, qualitative content analysis was used. Results: Thematic data analysis revealed three broad categories; technological development and radiation doses, current status of the radiography profession and specialisation leading to expert knowledge. Each category derived from two or three sub-categories. Conclusion: The results demonstrate significant trends of influences on the radiography profession in Sweden over the last four decades. New methods and technology and control of radiation doses have had a favourable effect on the development of the radiography profession. Nevertheless, current status such as shortage of radiographers has had an adverse way. Specialisation leading to expert knowledge has an influence on career advancement and a specialist education regulated by the law, might be a prerequisite for the development of the radiography profession. - Highlights: • Scenario Planning Method, a relatively underutilised methodology, was used. • The findings report the influencing trends perceived by Swedish radiographers. • Technological development and radiation dose awareness impacted the profession. • Shortage, work shifting and higher independency influenced the profession. • Expert knowledge affects career advancement and requests specialist education.