A Level students from schools across the South Eastern Trust area have gained a valuable insight into careers in radiography during a work experience day at the Ulster Hospital.
The event gave students the opportunity to explore the vital role medical imaging plays in diagnosing and treating patients while learning more about the different career pathways available within the profession.
The students attended an introductory presentation covering the various specialities within radiography before touring the department’s Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Ultrasound and Plain Film areas. They also observed demonstrations of imaging procedures, learned about the technology used in modern diagnostics and gained practical insight into the work of Radiographers.
Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to speak with practising Radiographers, ask questions and hear first-hand about working in a busy, patient-focused hospital environment.
A student from Victoria College said, “It has been very interesting and I found the talks really informative. I learned a lot about all the different parts of radiography.
“Radiography would be my first choice. It has lots of variety and you are working with people and making a difference. Work experience days like this really do give you a lot of information.”
A Campbell College student who attended the day added, “I found the tours really interesting and informative. The talks about the different sections of radiography were thorough but also engaging.
“Radiography is definitely something I have to consider as a career. Days like this are really important because they allow people to come in and see what happens day to day in a hospital and what different roles actually involve.”
South Eastern Trust, Radiology Practice Educator, Chris Smyth highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for young people to explore careers in healthcare and understand the contribution Radiographers make to patient care.
Chris stated, “It is so important to run work experience days like this to encourage people who have an interest in allied health professions to consider a career in these areas.
“Radiographers are at the centre of so many aspects of a patient’s hospital journey. Nine out of ten patients who come to hospital will meet a Radiographer at some point, which demonstrates just how vital their role is.
“The students get to learn about radiography, the different specialities and the variety of roles available. They also had the opportunity to explore the department, see how imaging services operate and learn more about how Radiographers work alongside patients and other healthcare professionals.”