By Sandra Blessing
Adoption of emerging technologies in radiography would go a long way in enhancing imaging and service delivery in the health sector.
Professionals and healthcare institutions have been challenged to intentionally embrace emerging technologies to transform imaging services and improve patient care.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 11th Biennial Radiographers Scientific Conference 2026 at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel in Kisumu, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) Chief Executive Officer Dr Joshua Okise said technology must go beyond acquiring equipment and translate into changes in how healthcare professionals think and deliver services.
The three-day conference, organised by the Society of Radiographers Kenya, was held under the theme “Transforming Radiography and Imaging: Reimagining and Redefining the Practice for Excellence.”
Dr Okise said JOOTRH has embraced digitisation, with digital imaging systems, electronic medical records, laboratory and radiology integration, and telemedicine supporting clinical decision-making and continuity of care.
He added that the planned installation of Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) at JOOTRH is expected to improve turnaround times by enabling timely digital access to medical images, reducing delays in image retrieval and supporting faster clinical decision-making.
PACS is a digital system used to store, retrieve and share medical images such as X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans.
The CEO called for continuous investment in adaptable, dependable and accountable practitioners as radiography undergoes rapid technological change and workforce demands increase.
He emphasised the importance of specialist training, continuous professional development, artificial intelligence (AI) competencies, radiation safety and quality management.
The conference brought together delegates from Uganda, Nigeria and Ghana, and also provided an opportunity for professional networking and knowledge exchange.
Society of Radiographers Kenya President Jevas Kenyanya supported the call for greater adoption of emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, research, education and multidisciplinary collaboration in the sector.
The discussions came against the backdrop of significant investment in JOOTRH’s radiology and imaging capacity in recent years.
The hospital has expanded its diagnostic technology, including digital X-ray, MRI, mammography, ultrasound and advanced CT imaging, with the installation of a 128-slice CT scanner.
These investments have expanded access to specialised diagnostic services within the region, supporting faster and more accurate diagnosis while reducing the need for patients to seek imaging services elsewhere.
