Introduction: This longitudinal research study reports on aspects of CPD immediately before and in the years following the simultaneous introduction of state registration and mandatory CPD for diagnostic radiographers in Ireland.
Methods: Surveys captured information through closed and open questions distributed nationally across various hospital types in hard copy and online formats. Opinion was gathered over 8-years at three time points, prior to the introduction of mandated changes, post-introduction at the end of the first audit cycle, and as society was emerging from a period of pandemic.
Results: Responses were received across age and grade ranges with response rates in keeping with previous surveys. The overall importance with which radiographers held CPD decreased over time, and while small changes were seen, the narrow focus of what radiographers considered CPD had stayed the same, with attendance-based activities remaining the most popular. Respondents indicated that their enthusiasm for undertaking CPD and willingness to undertake CPD outside of working hours had also decreased, with the perceived primary barrier to CPD shifting from funding to time.
Conclusions: An appetite to undertake CPD amongst the majority is evident; however, addressing issues such as decreasing importance levels and willingness to use personal time for CPD is crucial. While the perceived cost of CPD has lessened as a barrier, lack of time for CPD is now a principal concern. Further research is recommended to explore the broader impacts of time pressures and optimises CPD for radiographers.
Implications for practice: Findings highlight the need for collaborative engagement and support to optimise CPD opportunities for all radiographers in the future.
Keywords: Continuing Professional Development (CPD); Continuous education (CE); Lifelong learning; Mandatory CPD; State registration.
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