The establishment of an assessment method for radiographers to undertake mammographic image interpretation and reporting

The radiographic report is a communication channel for the reporter to the referring clinician. It is sometimes crucial in major decisions and may have legal significance [1]. The problem for the educationalist when assessing radiographers to undertake mammographic image reporting is that there is no performance standard [2]. This research was undertaken to establish an assessment method for mammographic image interpretation and reporting that was valid, reliable and fair [3].

Objectives

To develop an assessment form for mammographic reading/reporting. To determine the number of cases for reporting in the allocated assessment time. To propose the mark weighting for each section of the assessment form. To establish a pass mark.

Results

The agreed format for the assessment form was as follows: four sections headed clinical details, radiological observations, appropriate response and conclusion (including recommendations if appropriate). Ten cases were to be undertaken per hourly assessment. Twenty marks were allocated to each case, the observation section holding the greatest weighting. The pass mark required 100 marks from the available 200 - a fail for four cases being misinterpreted.

Modification following re-evaluation after implementation

The assessment time was increased. One hundred marks plus 70% agreement in appropriate response section was required for a pass.