Caeteris paribus: In search of the “Silent Professional Identity” of Filipino radiologic technologists during the COVID-19 pandemic

The value of professional identity is an interesting territory to explore, relative to working in interprofessional teams and collaborative communities The collaborative opportunities provided to health care workers during COVID-19 pandemic is a rare opportunity to underscore the silent yet significant identity of radiologic technologists as professionals. Historically and prior to the pandemic, the role of radiologic technologists remains unfamiliar, if not unrecognized in the Philippine healthcare industry. The ‘alliedness’ of this health care professional group is an evolving entity that can no longer be overlooked. The central and indispensable role played by radiologic technologists (RTs) invites meaningful discussion and debate among peers and researchers, to better describe the professional identity and role of the RT as an indispensable member of the interprofessional team. Specific recommendations are offered to improve recognition of RTs and their professional identity within the healthcare system.