Celebrating medical radiation sciences and the people who make it happen; National Radiographer and Radiation Therapists’ Week (NRRTW) this year runs from Monday 8 November to Sunday 14 November and encompasses World Radiography Day – 8 November – the date that Wilhelm Roentgen first discovered X-rays in 1895. NRRTW is a time for medical radiation science professionals to come together and acknowledge the vital work they do on behalf of the health of all Australians.

This year during National Radiographer and Radiation Therapists’ Week, it is important to acknowledge the ongoing challenges that 2021 has brought to us all. The global pandemic continues to present significant challenges for all our workforce.  Radiographers, radiation therapists, nuclear medicine professionals, sonographers and mammographers are continuing to exhibit the high standard of professionalism expected of them during this health crisis. The Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy are aware that our members and colleagues are performing their work duties, in some cases, under extreme stress on the frontline and wish to thank them and acknowledge how important their continued dedication and contribution is to the health of our country at this time.

The theme for World Radiography Day, held on 8 November, has never been more appropriate – Looking to the Future. Twelve months ago, I don’t think any of envisaged that we would still be in the midst of this pandemic. Whilst some states are faring better than others, the ongoing restrictions and hypervigilance in both the work and social context affect us all. So we must look to the future – and to a time when we can return to some national semblance of normality.

NRRTW is a time to educate – educating the patients, their families, and the general public about the invaluable service we perform in the allied health sector. In multi-tiered workplaces, other departments may also benefit from education during NRRTW and beyond; does everyone in your hospital workplace have an understanding of your role and technical abilities, and what can you do to educate them about our work?

We encourage you to use the free tools provided by ASMIRT during the week, beginning with this tool kit and including educational posters, information flyers, multipurpose stickers and a range of digital artworks for you to use on your websites, communications and social media.

As you place patients at the core of everything you do, this is a timely reminder to also make yourself and your colleagues a focus; your physical and mental health and that of your colleagues is so important during times of change and upheaval – be sure to take care of yourself so you can give your best to treat others as we look to the future.

Bronwyn Hilder
ASMIRT President

Thanks to those departments who ordered a free Celebration Pack, containing posters, name stickers, calendars, infographics, bunting, balloons and more. This pack has everything you need to tell the world about radiography, radiation therapy, sonography, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, mammography and World Radiography Day.

Orders are now closed and packs will be posted week commencing 11 October 2021.

Download the list to check whether an order has been placed by your team.

This year’s theme is LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Medical radiation science professionals are encouraged to keep their focus on the future this week – as we look towards bringing significant chamges and benefits to allied health and the health of our patients.

#LookingToTheFuture #NRRTW