Experiences of diagnostic radiography middle managers working at a private radiology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic affected hospitals, including diagnostic radiology departments all over the world. Operational management of radiography services in diagnostic radiology departments had to be adjusted to ensure the safe delivery of services to patients and to protect employees. Diagnostic radiography middle managers are responsible for the strategic planning and implementation of radiography services, providing leadership and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that services align with the goals and objectives of the organisation. After the World Health Organisation declared the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the diagnostic radiography department in this study, like other imaging departments in hospitals, had to adapt to the new public health guidelines and service delivery protocols. Aim: This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of diagnostic radiography middle managers working at a private radiology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This research employed an exploratory, descriptive qualitative study using a case study. Semi-structured interviews with diagnostic radiography middle managers working at various branches of a private radiology practice were conducted using the Zoom Communications Inc. online platform. Permission from the managing committee of the radiology practice was sought and obtained before data collection began. Participants voluntarily consented to participate. Additionally, ethical principles such as confidentiality and anonymity were maintained. Data was analysed using thematic analysis, with data being managed in compliance with the University’s established data management protocols. Results: Three main themes were developed namely adapting to change, challenging environment and managerial growth amidst the pandemic. Diagnostic radiography middle managers initially felt overwhelmed by the added responsibilities placed upon them at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. They also experienced psychological challenges dealing with their own fears as well as those of staff members. However, as the pandemic progressed, they adapted effectively, rising to the challenges with confidence and professionalism. Conclusion: Diagnostic radiography middle managers experienced many work related challenges, particularly in managing operational demands during the COVID 19 pandemic. Aspects highlighted by the diagnostic radiography middle managers were learning from one another through partnership to find innovative solutions. They reflected on key lessons learnt, like relying on support structures available to them as well as having a readiness to adapt swiftly to change. The study emphasises the need for a crisis management manual to guide diagnostic radiography middle managers in the event of possible future infectious disease outbreaks. An employee health and wellness programme could also be implemented to support radiology staff members during public health crisis periods.