Medical experts have said that it is critical for only qualified and well-trained professionals to handle medical imaging-related services in Nigeria.
They emphasized the significance due to the dangers and adverse health consequences linked to treatments provided by unqualified practitioners or individuals lacking proper training for operating certain radiological devices.
They met yesterday in Abuja at a complimentary training workshop aimed at radiographers, radiologists, medical physicists, and other medical imaging specialists. This event was organized by Cassona Global Imaging Ltd in collaboration with Neusoft Medical Systems.
Medical imaging involves employing various techniques and technologies to capture images of the internal structures of the human body, aiding in patient diagnosis and therapy.
This process utilizes tools such as X-rays, ultrasound imagery, CT scans, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for the purpose of screening, diagnosing, and treating conditions.
The Director of Radiography and Head of Inspection and Monitoring at the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria, Onwuegbuufu Ebere Obinna, stated that numerous unqualified individuals who lack professional training, registration, and licensing are increasingly utilizing radiant energy. This practice exposes patients seeking diagnostic services to potential risks.
Even though he stated that the organization was striving to combat pseudoscience, he urged groups and businesses to lower the cost of medical imaging devices to enhance accessibility for Nigerians.
He mentioned that the training program was well-timed, emphasizing that ‘the field is constantly changing, and technology is key to progress. Our aim is to achieve precise and prompt diagnoses, ensuring that imaging not only has practical medical value but also allows for storage, retrieval, and transmission to healthcare providers.’
Samer Noureldin, who serves as both a guest trainer and Senior Clinical Application Specialist at Neusoft Medical Systems, emphasized that it’s crucial for healthcare providers to continue their education. This is due to the constant emergence of new information and advancements in scientific fields, particularly within the domain of medical imaging equipment and software.
He mentioned that the attendees gained knowledge about advancements in CT scan technology, encompassing the specific model situated at Saint Mary’s Catholic Hospital in Gwagwalada, Abuja, along with other sophisticated diagnostic equipment.
He stated, “The mid-range CT scanner handles all imaging tasks excluding cardiac scans. Additionally, we possess more advanced units equipped with various features that significantly ease diagnostic processes and assist both radiologists and technologists in obtaining clearer images for accurate diagnoses.”
Nketiah Suphianu, who serves as the Sales Lead and Branch Manager at Cassona Imaging Limited, stated that Nigeria along with other African nations is falling short in the adoption of sophisticated medical imaging equipment.
He mentioned that this motivated the organization to host a complimentary workshop and training program for medical imaging specialists.
He mentioned that the organization has implemented a flexible repayment scheme spanning 24 months, enabling health institutions to afford medical imaging equipment, thus making it more accessible to the public.
The clinical medical physicist who leads Dosimetry Services at the National Hospital in Abuja, and also attended the training session, mentioned that radiation possesses both positive and negative aspects; moreover, he emphasized that improper handling can make it detrimental to human health.
He mentioned that the program assisted radiographers, radiologists, and medical physicists in staying updated about operating cutting-edge machinery.
He mentioned that the ‘japa syndrome’ was impacting the medical imaging sector, noting that the nation has fewer than 100 certified clinical medical physicists catering to its needs.
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