Factors impacting on the retention of radiographers in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa

Abstract

Staffing crisis in healthcare profession is not only a South African issue, but a global concern. Radiography is also one of the professions affected. According to records from Kwazulu-Natal (KZN) department as at 8th August 2013, there were 427 vacancies in the year 2008, 445 vacancies in 2009, 447 in 2010, 79 vacancies in the year 2011 and 81 vacancies in 2012. The vacancies in 2011 and 2012 were low because the government froze all posts that were not filled. Hospitals are thus understaffed. This study aimed to explore factors impacting on the retention of radiographers in KZN. A quantitative, descriptive survey design was used by completing an online questionnaire. The findings indicate that, in addition to the workload, radiographers were unhappy with salary and remuneration. They also stated that their expectations regarding the profession, careers progression opportunities were hindered. This was as a result of limited opportunities for professional development in the context of a limited scope of practice and over- dependence on the professionals themselves. The issue of scope of practice should be reviewed to align with the career progression which could create greater professional satisfaction and retention of radiographers within the KZN province in South Africa.