Imaging in Developing Countries

Special Interest Group

About the Imaging in Developing Countries Special Interest Group (IDC-SIG)

The IDC-SIG is a network of radiographers and other professionals working in the field of medical imaging who are working to support the advancement of radiography in developing countries. The group allows the sharing of information, ideas and best practice in this field.

The group was formed in response to the concern of a number of radiographers involved in overseas projects that whilst their projects were achieving a lot in their own right there was no exchange of knowledge and ideas between them. Consequently everyone had to find out everything for themselves; ‘the wheel’ had to be repeatedly re-invented and there was no opportunity for learning from similar projects.

The group was launched at a study day in 2004 which attracted around 30 participants. Since then the group has grown to over 70 members from a range of professional backgrounds including radiographers, radiologists, imaging managers, clinical tutors and lecturers, physicists, students, members of professional bodies and equipment manufacturers. A recent study day, held in conjunction with the Society of Radiographers attracted 50 delegates.

Members involvement with developing countries is diverse, including those already running projects, those looking to get involved, ex VSO’s, nationals of developing countries and those able to offer specialist advice.

The IDC-SIG exists primarily to facilitate communication and sharing of ideas between its members. Responsibility for the organisation and financing of projects rests with the individual members themselves. The group does not intend to make rules or policy on how projects should be run, but aims to offer advice based on members experiences.

The IDC-SIG has no budget and is therefore not a grant making organisation.

JOINING

Membership is free. To become a member, simply send your name, e-mail address and a brief description of both your experience in your home country and in developing countries (if any) to idcsig@yahoo.co.uk