Evaluation of advanced medical imaging services at Governmental Hospitals-Gaza Governorates, Palestine

Medical imaging services are the key tool to diagnose many diseases and have an important role in monitoring treatment and predicting outcome. The current study conducted to evaluate advanced medical imaging services (CT and MRI) at Governmental Hospitals-Gaza Governorates, Palestine. Triangulated study design was used (checklist, questionnaire and key informant interview). The researcher used arbitrated checklist to evaluate medical imaging facilities. Census study conducted on all Radiologic Technologists and medical imaging departments at three main governmental hospitals in the Gaza Strip, which offered advanced medical imaging. In addition, three key informant interviews with Radiologic Technologists manager were conducted. Researcher have directly interviewed 20 participants (75% Males; 80% older than 30; 90% bachelor and master degrees and 80% more than 10 years' experience). Researcher have directly interviewed 20 participants (75% Males; 80% older than 30; 90% bachelor and master degrees and 80% more than 10 years' experience). Each RT at European Gaza hospital is expected to perform 25 cases in the morning shift against 6 and 13 cases at Indonesia and Al-Shifa Hospital, respectively. Both of Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging departments showed that “60%, 78% and 91%” and “86%, 100% and 90%” followed standard regarding to their structures, occupational safety and essential supplies, respectively. An observable shortage in number of radiographic machines and Radiologic Technologists at all advanced medical imaging departments. All departments showed clear defect in structure, design and essential supplies. Critical readings were observed respecting to insufficient radiation protection tools and holding of Thermoluminescence Dosimeters.