Bone Densitometry Reporting PG Cert - Radiography

Program Overview

Students can customize their studies by choosing a complementary module, and the experienced healthcare professional staff bring real-world knowledge to the learning experience. The program aims to enhance students' skills in fracture management, improve reporting standards, and prepare them for a potential career in bone densitometry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This Postgraduate Certificate in Bone Densitometry Reporting is a flexible program offered by the University of Derby. It aims to:

• Increase knowledge in fracture prevention through osteoporosis diagnosis and management.
• Allow students to tailor their learning by choosing specific modules, advancing their knowledge in areas of interest.
• Provide in-depth knowledge of DXA scanning and reporting, incorporating the University Certificate Continuing Professional Development in DXA Reporting for Clinicians.
• Engage students with experienced and enthusiastic healthcare professionals who have worked in various roles within fracture risk management and utilize this experience in their teaching.
The program focuses on developing students' understanding of osteoporosis and the role of DXA in managing fracture risk. It emphasizes the need for a broader evidence-base to support practice, not just in fracture management and DXA but also in developing and leading projects and services.

Outline:

The program is structured as a part-time, 15-month Postgraduate Certificate. It is offered at the Kedleston Road, Derby Campus.

Modules:

• DXA Reporting for Clinicians: This core module covers the theoretical principles of DXA reporting and fracture prevention and management.
Students critically reflect on these principles and their application to work-based practice for patient/client care.
• One further 20 credit module from the MSc Leadership in Health and Social Care course: Students can choose a module reflecting their personal and professional interests.
This could be directly related to bone densitometry reporting or a more generic module. Examples include:
• Advancing Practice
• Assessment, Prevention and Management of Falls (Theory)
• Principles of Service Improvement in the Workplace
• Theoretical Considerations in the Diagnosis and Management of Osteoporosis
• Work-Based Negotiated

Assessment:

• Portfolio of reports and extended case studies: These reports include independent analysis and comments on technical aspects of the image, as well as treatment recommendations.
Students also conduct an audit of their reports compared to those of a trained practitioner.

Teaching:

• Teaching staff are healthcare professionals: They have worked in various roles within fracture risk management and share the latest developments in bone densitometry reporting.
• Staff have contributed to national guidance on standards for DXA reporting: This ensures that the teaching is up-to-date and of a high standard.

Careers:

• Enhanced practice in fracture management and DXA reporting: Students develop skills to implement further activities within these fields.
• Establish standards of practice in the workplace: Graduates can confidently implement best practices in their work environments.
• Produce diagnostic reports on the management and care of patients: Students are guided to produce high-quality reports under the supervision of mentors and academic staff.

Other:

• Minimum numbers: The program is subject to minimum numbers to run.
• Teaching hours: The University of Derby operates extended teaching hours, so contact time with lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm.
• Support: Students are encouraged to have the support of an appropriate mentor in their workplace before starting the course.
Mentors and tutors help students produce diagnostic reports that inform patient management and care.
• Curriculum: The program's curriculum is closely mapped against the health and social care sector, ensuring it is up-to-date and relevant.
• National changes: The curriculum is responsive to national changes, such as government policy.