The Radiology Department at Heart Hospital recently observed World Radiography Day, which marks the anniversary of the discovery of x-radiation by a German physicist, Wilhelm Röentgen, in 1895.
On 8 November 1895, Roentgen produced and detected electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range that was known as x-rays or Röentgen rays, an achievement that earned him the first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901. In honor of his accomplishments, in 2004 the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) named element 111 roentgenium after him; roentgenium is a radioactive element with multiple unstable isotopes.
On World Radiography Day, radiographers worldwide promote radiography as a career and demonstrate the field’s vital contribution to modern healthcare. The occasion also aims to create public awareness of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy.
Dr. Fatima Al Sulaiti, Chief Technologist at the Heart Hospital’s Radiology Department and organizer of the World Radiography Day, said: “We are proud to have joined in the celebration of Röentgen, who is considered the father of diagnostic radiology, the medical specialty that uses imaging to diagnose diseases. We hope that radiographers across Qatar have shared updates in the field by coming together during our symposium.”
As part of events marking the day, patients were asked to participate in a survey by completing a questionnaire about radiography. Other activities held at HMC’s Club Hotel in Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City included a symposium and a gala dinner during which an appreciation award was presented to a member of the Radiology Department who has worked with the department for more than 20 years.
The objectives of the symposium, attended by physicians, residents and seven local speakers, included:
• Building effective communication between all radiographers
• Raising awareness of radiology practice in Qatar through activities held during the symposium
• Reflecting the core values, identity and confidence of radiographers in Qatar
• Sharing recent advances in radiology between radiographers and others who work in healthcare
• Encouraging students in the field of radiography
• Planning and getting updates about the future of radiology in Qatar
For more information, please contact:
Corporate Communications Department
Hamad Medical Corporation
