Obstacles limiting medical laboratory technologists and technicians from participating in continuing professional development activities : special article

All practising medical technologists and technicians must participate in the compulsory CPD programme implemented by the HPCSA. Asurvey was conducted to identify obstacles that might limit medical technology workers from participating in CPD activities and also to identify those activities that are more accessible. During the first phase of the survey, quantitative information concerning CPD was obtained from 338 registered medical technologists and technicians by means of a questionnaire. This information contributed to the compiling of an interview questionnaire. Structured interviews were conducted with 50 medical technologists and technicians employed throughout South Africa, representing different pathology laboratories, in order to confirm information obtained from the mailed questionnaire. Lack of time and financial constraints, and to a lesser extent travelling to attend CPD events, were identified as the major obstacles to participate in CPD activities. Small group activities, especially those conducted during working hours, such as journal discussions, were the more accessible activities. To successfully implement CPD for medical technologists and technicians a positive attitude towards CPD in the workplace should be fostered.