More than half of U.K. radiographers don't believe they have enough personal protective equipment (PPE), testing, or cleaning supplies to cope with COVID-19, according to survey results issued on 4 May by the British Institute of Radiology (BIR).
The institute conducted a survey of imaging and oncology professionals between 29 April and 1 May. Respondents included 561 radiographers, 65 radiologists, 11 scientists, and six oncologists. It found the following:
- 36% of radiographers believe they have access to adequate COVID-19 PPE; 21% believe that PPE provision will be adequate over the next three months.
- 23% believe that COVID-19 testing is adequate.
- 44% believe that cleaning supplies are adequate; 36% believe supplies will be adequate over the next three months.
As for radiologists, 55% stated there is adequate PPE and 33% stated there is adequate testing. The participating scientists and oncologists offered similar responses, the BIR said.
"Radiographers, as well as radiologists, oncologists, scientists and others, are putting themselves at risk every day to help patients during this emergency," said BIR President Dr. Jane Phillips-Hughes in a statement. "It is essential that their level of risk is recognized, that they feel supported and that they are provided with the PPE and other supplies needed to keep them and their patients as safe as possible."
For more details about the survey, you can read the full press release on the BIR website.
