Challenges and optimization strategies in medical imaging service delivery during COVID-19

Table 1 Summary of the challenges in the provision of medical imaging service during coronavirus disease 2019

Challenge	Experiences of medical imaging departments
Coping with limited manpower	Team segregation; Increased workload; Increased responsibility; Increased procedure time due to infection control measures and terminal cleaning of equipment; Self-isolation due to contact with positive cases; Statutory paid sick leave
Coping with strict infection control measures	Shortage of PPE; Increased risk of exposure from prolonged patient contact; Resource and labour intensive due to terminal cleaning of equipment
Coping with limited resources	Equipment segregation; Inadequate mobile radiography units; Delay in delivery of equipment due to increased orders; overseas shipment of equipment delayed; Poor imaging service delivery due to a lack of imaging equipment
Safeguarding of medical imaging professionals’ well-being	Aggravated psychological pressure and mental illness; Physical and emotional distress among medical imaging professionals; Burnout; Fatigue

PPE: Personal protective equipment.