Dr. Vivian Della Atuwo-Ampoh is an accomplished academic and healthcare professional currently serving as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Medical Imaging (Radiography) at the School of Allied Health Sciences (SAHS), University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Ghana. In this role, she teaches Radiation Physics in Medical Imaging, blending her extensive clinical experience with academic expertise to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of medical imaging principles and practices.
Before joining UHAS, Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh held the position of Deputy Chief Radiotherapist at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). Her professional affiliations reflect her dedication to advancing healthcare and research in Ghana. She is a registered member of the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC) and actively participates in several professional organizations, including the Ghana Society of Radiographers (GSR), the Ghana Society of Medical Physicists (GSMP), the Ghana Association for Radiation Protection (GARP), and Women in Physics Ghana (WiPG).
Education
Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh’s academic journey showcases her commitment to excellence in medical physics and radiography. She holds a Master’s Degree in Medical Physics from the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences (SNAS), University of Ghana. Prior to this, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Radiography, also from the University of Ghana.
In addition to her degrees, Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh expanded her expertise by obtaining a Professional Diploma in Project Design and Management of Research through a collaborative program between the University of Utah and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). This multidisciplinary background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to contribute to both clinical practice and research in innovative and impactful ways.
Work Experience
Clinical Experience
Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh has more than 15 years of professional experience as a Radiotherapist. She has worked in some of Ghana’s most prominent healthcare institutions, including the Oncology Directorate at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and the National Centre for Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
In her role as a Radiotherapist, Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh was deeply involved in all aspects of cancer treatment, including:
- Diagnosis, Simulation, and Treatment Planning for cancer patients requiring radiation therapy.
- Radiation Treatment Delivery, ensuring precision and safety in administering therapeutic radiation.
- Clinical Supervision of Students, mentoring and guiding the next generation of radiotherapy professionals.
- Conducting Quality Assurance measures to maintain high standards of care in radiotherapy.
Her work also extended beyond clinical practice. At KATH, she served as an executive member of the Research Review and Ethics Committee, contributing to the ethical oversight of research within the Oncology Directorate.
Advocacy and Awareness
In addition to her clinical responsibilities, Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh has been actively involved in Cancer Awareness Campaigns across Ghana. She is passionate about educating the public on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. Through her advocacy efforts, she aims to reduce the stigma surrounding cancer and improve access to life-saving interventions.
Research Interests
Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh’s research pursuits align closely with her professional expertise and clinical experience. Her primary areas of interest include:
- Dosimetry and Dose Optimization: She focuses on improving radiation dose delivery in both diagnostic and therapeutic radiography to enhance patient safety and outcomes.
- Radiation Protection: Her work emphasizes protecting patients and healthcare providers from unnecessary radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic and therapeutic effectiveness.
- Quality of Life in Cancer Patients: She investigates the physical, emotional, and social challenges faced by cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, with the goal of improving their overall well-being.
- Mammography and Breast Cancer Survival: Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh is particularly interested in breast cancer-related issues, including early detection, treatment outcomes, and survival rates.
Her research not only contributes to the academic community but also informs clinical practices, ensuring that patients benefit from the latest advancements in medical imaging and radiotherapy.
Current Role at UHAS
As an Assistant Lecturer at UHAS, Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh plays a vital role in the education and training of future radiographers. She specializes in teaching Radiation Physics in Medical Imaging, a foundational course that equips students with the theoretical and practical knowledge required for careers in radiography.
Through her teaching, research, and advocacy, Dr. Atuwo-Ampoh continues to make significant contributions to the fields of medical imaging, radiotherapy, and cancer care in Ghana. Her dedication to patient care, education, and research underscores her commitment to advancing healthcare and improving lives.