Exploring the Lived Experiences of Newly Hired Radiologic Technologists Transitioning from Hyflex Learning to Clinical Practice from a Selected Level II Private Hospital in Cauayan City, Isabela: A Basis for Enhancing Onboarding Training Programs

This study explored the lived experiences of newly hired radiologic technologists who completed their education through a hybrid flexible learning program and later moved into real clinical practice at the hospital. A qualitative phenomenological design was used in the study, with an open-ended, semi-structured interview guide as the primary data-collection tool. A total of nine participants whose profiles aligned with the inclusion criteria were asked to share their experiences of the transition from academe to the workplace. Their answers were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six phase thematic analysis, through the process, six themes has emerged, it includes (1) Navigating the transition from hybrid flexible learning to clinical practice, (2) Professional growth through clinical exposure, (3) Managing emotional and psychological challenges, (4) Overcoming clinical practice challenges, (5) Strengthening clinical readiness through experiential learning and, and (6) Establishing structured support systems for new radiologic technologists. The study's findings show that onboarding programs must be strengthened to address both the technical and emotional needs of radiologic technologists. Institutions' investment in hospital and departmental orientations, modality-specific training, simulation-based skills workshops, structured mentorship programs, competency assessment and evaluation, continuous feedback and monitoring are recommended by the participants to ensure that new radiologic technologists are competent, confident, and compassionate in their roles because proper onboarding training programs properly set them up for responsibilities that an allied health care worker will face.