By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 9: The Meghalaya Chapter of the Indian Society of Radiologic Technologists (ISRT) on Wednesday organised its first-ever programme in the state to commemorate International Radiology Day.
The event, held at Dr HG Roberts Hospital Shillong, showcased the dedication of radiology professionals and aimed to spread awareness about the impact of radiology on patient care.
The resource persons for the event included C. Daniala, the Head of the Department of Radiology and Imaging and Medical Superintendent at NEIGRIHMS, Pynshngainlang Sumer, Supervisor in the Department of Radiology at NEIGRIHMS, R. Nongrum, Medical Superintendent at Dr HG Roberts Hospital, Banteilang Nonglang, in charge of the Department of Radiology at Dr HG Roberts Hospital, Rimiki Challam, radiologist at Civil Hospital Shillong, P. Basaiawmoit, nursing superintendent at Dr HG Roberts Hospital Shillong, Colleen S. Pariat, Head of the Allied Health Sciences Department at Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU), and Lewaka Plain, Assistant Head of the Allied Health Sciences Department, MLCU.
Radiographers from different organisations in Meghalaya participated in the programme, demonstrating their commitment to promoting excellence in radiography. Their attendance added value to the event and helped create networking opportunities among professionals in the field.
Dr Daniala was the chief guest and Dr Sumer was the guest of honour of the event that began at 2 p.m.
The programme started with the national anthem followed by an invocation by Rev George W. Chen. The welcome address was delivered by Michelle Lyngdoh, vice president of the ISRT’s state chapter.
Joshua Kharpuri, president of the ISRT’s Meghalaya Chapter, highlighted the importance of International Radiology Day in recognising the contributions of radiology professionals. He emphasised in his introductory speech the need for continuous professional development and collaboration among radiographers to enhance patient care services in the region.
He thanked the attendees for their support and urged them to actively participate and contribute to the chapter’s initiatives. He said that together, they can create a stronger, more united radiology community in Meghalaya, ultimately benefiting both professionals and patients.
Dr Sumer gave a discourse on the theme for World Radiography Day: ‘Ensuring Patient Safety’. He highlighted the significance of a comprehensive approach to patient safety in the field of radiography.
“While radiation production is undoubtedly a crucial aspect, it is imperative to consider broader factors that can impact patient safety before, during, and after the radiological procedure,” he said, highlighting the significance of radiation protection measures.
“Radiographers and technologists must adhere to strict protocols to minimise radiation exposure to patients, staff, and themselves. This includes the use of shielding devices, appropriate equipment, and monitoring systems to guarantee the highest level of safety,” Dr Sumer said.
Dr Daniala highlighted the evolution of medical imaging healthcare over the years. He reminisced about the challenges faced in the past and the advancements that have transformed the field of Radiology.
He said that despite technological advancements, the essence and importance of medical imaging remain constant and irreplaceable in providing quality healthcare. He also mentioned the importance of having a regulatory body specifically for radiographers and technologists.
Dr Daniala acknowledged that the field of radiology is constantly evolving with advancements in technology and techniques. As such, there is a need for a regulatory body to ensure that these professionals are kept up to date with the latest developments and adhere to the highest standards of practice.
As part of the programme, a poster and model-making competition was held specifically for medical imaging technology students from MLCU. Participants were encouraged to showcase their creativity and knowledge.
During the closing ceremony, prizes were distributed among the winners of the poster and model-making competitions. The participants who demonstrated exceptional skills in presenting visually appealing and informative posters and models were acknowledged and rewarded for their efforts.
This recognition is aimed to motivate and encourage young talents in the field of radiology and inspire them to pursue further studies and research in this area.