Pharmacophore an International Research Journal
The radiologist assistant (RA) is a relatively new role that holds considerable potential for improving access to healthcare services and addressing some of the workforce issues that plague healthcare. The major objective of this review is to examine the role of radiologist assistants in improving patient care in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). It also provides workforce solutions that will enable radiology technologists (RTs) to pursue a satisfying career path and offer the highest quality of care for patients. RAs are trained in patient assessment, pathology, anatomy, physiology, diagnostic imaging fundamentals, radiation safety, medical and legal standards, general patient care, lifesaving procedures, and interventional radiological procedures. The advantages of hiring RAs include reducing the shortage of radiology experts, especially in rural areas, improving the productivity of physicians and other specialists, and cost savings. The RA is an innovative way to meet patient needs and to improve the quality, efficiency, and productivity of radiological services in the Saudi Arabian healthcare system. Moreover, RAs can help balance higher patient volumes with quality patient care by improving radiology department workflows. The recommendation is that the use of RAs in KSA should be structured in such a way that their responsibilities do not overlap with those of radiologists. In addition, there must be a consensus on the qualification and even licensure requirements for RAs from the local authority institute, Saudi Commission for Health Specialties “SCFHS”, to ensure a proper legal footing for RA graduates and it is accredited by the SCFHS.
