TRAINING IN RADIOGRAPHY TECHNIQUES AND IMPLEMENTATION OF DIGITAL RADIOLOGY MEDICAL RECORDING SYSTEM FOR HEALTH WORKERS AT DRS. H. AMRI TAMBUNAN REGIONAL GENERAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Rapid advances in medical imaging technology, particularly digital radiography, have revolutionized diagnostics and patient management worldwide, offering significant advantages in image quality, workflow efficiency, and reduced radiation exposure. The adoption of digital radiography, replacing conventional film-based systems, is a priority agenda in Indonesia, driven by government regulations and the need to improve the efficiency and quality of healthcare services. However, many healthcare facilities, particularly at the regional general hospital (RSUD) level, still face challenges in optimally adopting and implementing this digital technology, potentially hindering its full benefits and risking errors in recording crucial medical data due to gaps in technical understanding and best practices among healthcare workers. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a specially designed training program to improve the knowledge and skills of healthcare workers at Drs. H. Amri Tambunan Regional General Hospital (RSUD) in modern digital radiography techniques and the implementation of a digital radiology medical record system (RIS/PACS), and to explore their perceptions of the ease of use and benefits of the implemented digital system, based on the theoretical frameworks of Adult Learning Theory and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The primary hypothesis of this study is that participation in a comprehensive training program will significantly improve participants' knowledge and skills in digital radiography techniques and the use of digital radiology medical recording systems, which in turn will increase their confidence and work effectiveness. To achieve this objective, the study adopted a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test-post-test control group design approach, involving 50 healthcare workers in the radiology unit of Drs. H. Amri Tambunan Regional General Hospital who were divided into an intervention group (n=25) and a control group (n=25) through purposive sampling. Primary data collection was conducted using a structured questionnaire and a validated and reliable practical test to measure theoretical knowledge and technical skills. The study procedures included administering a pre-test to both groups, conducting intensive training for the intervention group, and administering the same post-test. Data analysis was performed using independent t-test and paired t-test with a significance level of p < 0.05. The results of the data analysis showed that the training program had a very significant impact on improving knowledge and skills, with the average post-test score of the intervention group (88.5 ± 6.2) being significantly higher than the control group (58.1 ± 8.9), and a Cohen's d effect size of 3.87, indicating a very large training effect. Observations of practical skills also showed an increase in image acquisition accuracy and navigation efficiency of the RIS/PACS system in the intervention group. Furthermore, 92% of participants in the intervention group felt more confident in using the technology, and there was also an increase in collaboration and a decrease in patient data search time. In conclusion, the digital radiography technique training program and the implementation of a digital radiology medical recording system have proven to be very effective in improving the competence of healthcare workers at Drs. H. Amri Tambunan Regional General Hospital, providing theoretical contributions to the validation of learning models and technology acceptance in the Indonesian healthcare context, as well as practical implications in the form of the need for investment in continuous professional development to optimize digital technology investments and improve the quality of radiology services. Key recommendations include integrating similar training programs into routine staff development curricula, as well as exploring the long-term impact of this training on patient satisfaction and diagnostic accuracy in future research.