SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Bachelor of Radiography in Diagnostic

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
117409	Bachelor of Radiography in Diagnostic
ORIGINATOR
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)	Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services		Curative Health
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	480	Not Applicable	NQF Level 08	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2020-07-30	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2034-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Radiography in Diagnostics is to provide the learner with nationally relevant and internationally compatible imaging skills that meets the health needs of societies and the learners' social and educational needs.

This qualification enables the learner to competently apply an integration of theory, practical experience and appropriate attitudes for their daily practice and to the solution of well-defined and abstract problems in Diagnostic Radiography.

A learner in this qualification will achieve the following competencies at the end of the study:

Demonstrate an understanding of Diagnostic Radiography principles to solve practical problems within radiography will be promoted by the competent performance of routine and specialised radiographic procedures.

Identify health problems in the context of Diagnostic Radiography.

Suggest and implement a solution or plan of action to solve the problems professionally through effective and safe patient care practices following the patient's needs by taking into consideration ethical principles as well as human rights and medical law requirements.

Perform professional duties with confidence in collaboration with other health care professionals and where appropriate assume leadership in tasks or projects to promote efficient and effective service delivery and total quality management in the radiography profession as well as the healthcare service in general.

Keep up with the current trends and changing needs of Diagnostic Radiography service on a regional, national and international level by undertaking research or fostering a research climate within the radiography profession.

Contribute towards and facilitate the continuing professional development of Diagnostic Radiography staff by either engaging in research or fostering the research environment and encouraging teamwork among radiographers and other healthcare professionals.

Reflect on and explore a variety of strategies to improve Diagnostic Radiography practice through practical organisational and management skills for both patient's information and any other information necessary to efficient healthcare service delivery.

Communicate effectively in the learning and health care environment by demonstrating competency and skills necessary for the use of technology and associated accessories required for transfer or sharing of information among healthcare workers and other stakeholders to deliver quality patient care and facilitate management processes.

Rationale:
This qualification is a 480 Credits professional degree. It is different from the current 360 Credits offering because the former introduces a research project, radiographic practice management, expanded theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in new radiographic modalities compatible with a postgraduate qualification as well as meeting the workplace needs. Radiography profession also needs to develop the body of knowledge, especially given the rate of technological innovations; hence radiographers with higher qualifications with research and sound theoretical knowledge are required.

The qualification aims to emphasise the development of creative thinking and problem-solving skills essential for radiography practice and the communities served, life-long learning through enquiry that ensures achievement of competencies.

Learners who complete this qualification will be able to work independently and competently with all Diagnostic Radiography imaging modalities in public and private health care institutions. Learners will also be able to effectively manage the imaging department as well as conduct research to improve service delivery to patients and increase the body of knowledge in radiography.

Successful completion of this qualification will enable the learner to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Diagnostic Radiographer and articulate vertically to qualifications with a specific specialisation like Mammography, CT and MRI.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Admission through RPL will apply if the learner has proper credits and experience acquired from recognised institutions and meet the requirements for admission. The institution will also consider the time when the learner obtained the qualification, credits or experience. The content and assessments for attaining the prior knowledge should be equivalent to that of the module to be recognised.

RPL or credit transfer will only apply on a particular module, not qualification nor the final year of study. The institution uses a variety of assessment methods to confirm claimed prior learning, including but not limited to portfolios and clinical assessments.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's studies with Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Sciences and English.
Or

Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement and Mathematics, Physical Science, Biology and English.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 488 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 108 Credits:

Radiographic Physics, 20 Credits.

Health Care Practice, 16 Credits.

Human Anatomy, 24 Credits.

Physiology, 24 Credits.

English for Health Sciences, 16 Credits.

Computer Fundamentals, 8 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 128 Credits:

Radiographic Practice & Pattern Recognition, 24 Credits.

Imaging Science I, 16 Credits.

Radio Pharmacology, 12 Credits.

Professional Literacy & Research, 8 Credits.

Radiographic Physics II, 16 Credits.

Clinical Education & Practice I, 16 Credits.

Ethics & Medical Law, 20 Credits.

Anatomical Pathology, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 128 Credits:

Radiographic Practice & Pattern Recognition II, 24 Credits.

Imaging Science II, 16 Credits.

Research Design & Statistics, 12 Credits.

Clinical Education & Practice II, 20 Credits.

Radiographic Physics III, 16 Credits.

Radiographic Practice Management & Leadership, 20 Credits.

Radiological Pathology, 20 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 104 Credits:

Radiographic Practice & Pattern Recognition III (including Inter-professional Education, IPE), 32 Credits.

Imaging Science III, 16 Credits.

Research Project, 24 Credits.

Clinical Education & Practice III, 32 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 8, 20 Credits (Select one):

Advanced Pattern Recognition, 20 Credits.

Advanced Computerised Tomography, 20 Credits.

Medical Imaging Informatics, 20 Credits.

Radiation Safety & Protection, 20 Credits.

Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging, 20 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate competency in the performance of routine and specialised radiographic procedures to produce images of diagnostic quality.
2. Evaluate the quality of routine and specialised radiographic images and perform image interpretation to identify normal and abnormal appearances.
3. Perform safe and effective patient care following the patient's needs and departmental protocol to ensure the provision of quality service and maintain the welfare of the patient.
4. Apply the principles of human rights, ethics and medical law which ensure the well-being of the patient.
5. Access, organise and present information applicable to the radiography context to record, retrieves and communicates patient data.
6. Plan, develop and apply total quality management appropriate to the diagnostic radiography context.
7. Demonstrate research skills and foster a research climate in Diagnostic Radiography.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Interpret the request form for validity and knowledge of relevant radiographic terminology, anatomy, physiology and pathology to help in selecting appropriate techniques for the production of images necessary for providing diagnostic information to assist in patient management.

Select accessory equipment and imaging systems and appropriately utilised for specific positioning techniques to ensure optimal exposure factors are selected and adapted to produce images of diagnostic quality.

Effectively apply radiation protection and safety measures to each radiographic technique and procedure.

Prepare for and competently perform routine and specialised radiographic techniques and procedures with and without contrast media.

Demonstrate sterile techniques for the correct needle placement in a vein.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Evaluate radiographic images for diagnostic quality according to relevant evaluation criteria and to ensure that the images conform to the medico-legal requirements.

Evaluate images for normal and abnormal radiographic appearances by applying integrated knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology.

Apply corrective measures to the radiographic techniques where necessary.

Communicate radiographic appearances to the referring health care professional to enable further patient management.

Exercise independent judgment and discretion in the performance of additional radiographic views where justified.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Assess the patient presenting clinical condition and take appropriate action.

Respect the cultural and psychological diversity of patients to ensure the provision of quality service.

Explain the radiographic procedures to the patient before, during and after the process to ensure the co-operation of the patient.

Apply optimal patient care before, during and after the procedure.

Demonstrate practical written, verbal and non-verbal communication skills during interaction with patients and health care team members.

Demonstrate skills and knowledge of first aid as and when applicable.

Recognise signs and symptoms of contrast media reaction, take appropriate action, and assist in emergency medicine following such responses.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Recognise and act upon psychological, cultural and ethical considerations of the patient and their families in a professional manner.

Protect the rights of the patient, as entrenched in the Human Rights Bill, the Patients Charter and medical law and maintain confidentiality.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Demonstrate information technology skills to record, retrieve and communicate patient data.

Compile data and present information scientifically.

Effectively communicate information technology within the radiographic context.

Select and critically evaluate relevant information.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Demonstrate principles of quality assurance and quality control in the development of departmental protocols.

Select, purchase and maintain equipment and accessories within an available budget to provide an efficient and cost-effective service.

Effectively develop and maintain communication and co-operation between all role players to provide an optimal service.

Develop performance management strategies in a manner which shows an understanding of management principles and current legislation.

Accurately maintain departmental records and statistics by the departmental and professional council requirements.

Demonstrate integrated knowledge of management, technology and legislation in the ability to design and equip a new, or alter an existing, ultrasound facility.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Engage in professional and self-development concerning educational, career and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Participate in the social, political and academic debate about what research is and how to do it in the health sector.

Analyse and understand the research of others so that it may be replicated or inform own research.

Review pertinent literature to design a research project.

Demonstrate the research principles and methodology in the field of radiographic research in the form of a research project.

Report results of the research project according to scientific norms.

Integrated Assessment:
The Formative (60%) and Summative (40%) assessment for this qualification follow the institution's policies:

Written tests, case study assignments, projects, clinical/practical assessment (on patients), OSCE's as well as summative assessments.

Formative assessments: Tests - 60%, assignments and projects - 30% and class tests, presentations - 10%. All these contribute 60% of the final mark = Year Mark.

Summative assessment: Examination and practical/OSCE where applicable - 40% of the final mark.

Clinical Education and Practice at Level 2-4, is an integrated module which will assume an integrated approach to assessment.

The Research Project has an integrated approach to the radiographic practice hence have an integrated assessment approach.

At every level, there will be an integrated assignment that seeks to emphasize the interrelationship of all the modules done.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The institution considered the following institutions and countries to determine if this qualification was comparable:

Country: Australia:
Institution: University of South Australia (UniSA).
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging).

This Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging) is a four-year qualification at Honours level. The Modules done are similar but given at different levels of study, and Psychology is a stand-alone module. At the same time, the Psychology module at the South African institution forms part of the Health Care Practice module. The UniSA does not have electives.

Country: United Kingdom.
Institution: Queen Margaret University (Edinburg).
Qualification Title: Master of Radiography: Diagnostic Radiography (MDRad.).
This Master of Radiography: Diagnostic Radiography (MDRad.) is a four-year qualification at Masters level. There is compatible content with research skills training starting in the second year but in the first year for the South African institution. Both qualifications offer similar module names and topics throughout the four years of study. Learners register for the Anatomy and Physiology module in the first year for both institutions.

Both qualifications are science-based in the first year except that learner register for Clinical Practice in the first year for the South African institution and second year at Queen Margaret University. Clinical placement throughout training in both institutions, demonstrating the importance of clinical competencies and experience. This institution is one of a few universities in the UK offering a four-year qualification and is number 20 in the global university ranking. Most South African Radiography graduates are employed in the UK, without the need for re-training.

Country: Nigeria.
Institution: University of Nigeria Nsukka.
Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science in Radiography and Radiological Sciences.
This Bachelor of Science in Radiography and Radiological Sciences is a four-year qualification offered to learners with a National Diploma in Medical Imaging and Processing five-year basic degree with specialisation planned in some areas like Diagnostic Radiography, Ultrasound and Therapy.
The qualification has a pre-clinical and clinical phase which compares to theory and clinical practice times with this qualification.

The qualification was selected due to the comparable economies with South Africa, but with a more diverse and more significant population, however the health system is less developed than in South Africa. Since SA democracy, there has been an influx of Nigerian population, including professionals to South Africa.

There are similarities between the two qualifications in terms of the speciality areas in Medical Diagnostic Radiography, Ultrasound, Medical Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine Sciences.
The differences between the qualifications are in terms of qualification type, duration and qualification level. However, the foreign institution's planned specialisation areas compare with the planned specialisation areas at the institution.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Radiography Honours in Nuclear Medicine, NQF Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Health Sciences in Radiography, NQF Level 9.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

1.	Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University