An evaluation of the constancy testing programme for medical imaging devices at a major public hospital in Malta : a medical physics perspective

Abstract

Background: Medical Physics is a young profession in Malta and the constancy testing programme at the major public hospital under study, younger still. It was therefore felt necessary that a strategic evaluation of the present state of the programme be carried out. Objectives: The objectives of the study were: (a) To identify standards regarding the structure and management of constancy testing programmes for imaging devices in major public hospitals. (b) To develop a vision statement for the constancy testing programme which complies with the identified standards and with the role of the hospital within Maltese society and healthcare system. (c) To carry out a SWOT analysis to evaluate the current programme. (d) To provide recommendations for improvement in terms of a list of suggested strategic planning objectives. Research Methodology: A qualitative research approach with a pragmatic philosophical perspective was adopted. Qualitative data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews with the Medical Physics professionals practicing in Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, on-site observations at the hospital concerned and document analysis. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analysed using NVivo software. SWOT themes were elicited from the qualitative data using thematic analysis. Results: A vision statement for the programme was developed and internal strengths and weaknesses along with external opportunities and threats of the present constancy testing programme at the hospital under study were identified. Conclusions and Recommendations: The current programme has many strengths but also several weaknesses, mainly derived from the profession being so young in Malta. Fortunately, several opportunities for programme improvement are available. Nonetheless, some threats do exist. Strategic objectives for programme improvement were proposed. By keeping patient service in mind and taking strategic management approaches, continuous quality improvement of the constancy testing programme is assured.