Abstract:
Many countries are experiencing a shortage of
radiologic science professionals, prompting
an increasing number of foreign technolo-
gists to move to those countries. Some tech-
nologists accept the challenge because they want to apply
their skills where the need is greatest. Financial reasons
entice others, whereas still others are drawn by the oppor-
tunity to learn or experience something new. Whatever
the individual motivation for this migration, the result is
that a growing global need is being addressed.1
Working in a setting where the cultural aspects (eg,
language, food, customs, traditions) are unfamiliar can
be challenging. Culture shapes how people think and
act, as well as how they interpret certain actions; it plays
a role in every situation, including when patients receive
medical care. Radiologic technologists who strive to
learn about the people they serve experience fewer
clashes and conf licts inherent in cross-cultural com-
munication.2 In addition, adopting patient interaction
practices that consider the prevailing cultural norms
results in more patient cooperation and satisfaction dur-
ing imaging examinations.
