The value of mentorship frameworks in current nuclear medicine practice - Initial findings from the South West of England and South Wales

Abstract

Overview Ongoing developments in the field of Nuclear Medicine have significantly influenced the working practice of the Nuclear Medicine Practitioner (NMP). Previous research appears to indicate that formal mentorship frameworks have the opportunity to guide the NMP through these ongoing developments, as they provide a forum to discuss problems and through mechanisms of constructive feedback encourage goal clarity. (Dawson,G.et al, 2010, 46-53. Imaging and Oncology) Methods An on-line questionnaire was forwarded to a number of clinical stakeholders across the South-West of England and South Wales. This questionnaire was designed to gather both quantitative and qualitative responses as to the current availability of mentorship frameworks within Nuclear Medicine Practice. Importantly the questionnaire also attempted to consider the impact that such schemes are having on the development of the NMP. Results Initial findings would seem to demonstrate that 40% of the Nuclear Medicine Departments included in the sample have some form of mentorship programme in place. However, only 20% of respondents actually reported allocation of a formal mentor. Most importantly 75% of the respondents answered positively when asked whether mentorship frameworks have a future role in Nuclear Medicine practice, a response that would appear to demonstrate the need for further research.