Global Radiology Training Prevalence Among Radiology Residency Programs

Abstract

ObjectiveGlobal Radiology aims to enhance access to medical imaging services and education, worldwide. To date, few reports have evaluated Global Radiology Training (GRT) in radiology residency programs. Here, we examined how radiology residency programs perceive and incorporate GRT into their curriculum, and how this information is promoted online. MethodsTwo methods were used to examine the current state of GRT. First, radiology residency program directors (identified via the Association of Program Directors in Radiology) were surveyed on topics including: Electives, institutional partnerships, resident and faculty involvement, inquiry by prospective residents, and barriers to implementation. Second, radiology residency program websites (n = 193) were examined for existing GRT on the programs’ publicly available webpages. ResultsThere were 62 survey responses (response rate of 19%). Thirty-eight percent (24/62) of residency programs offered a Global Radiology elective to their residents within the past academic year and 27% (17/62) of programs have active affiliations with medical institutions outside of the United States. Eighty-four percent of program directors (52/62) received questions from residency applicants regarding opportunities to participate in Global Radiology. Furthermore, only 13% (26/193) of all radiology residency programs listed at least one GRT elective on their webpage. DiscussionGRT in radiology residency is more widely available than previously reported and has been underrepresented on residency program websites. In the present survey, the majority of radiology residency program directors reported that radiology is an important component of Global Health, one-third of whom have already incorporated the subject into their curriculum. However, most common barriers to GRT include, perceived lack of time in the curriculum and lack of faculty interest. The high prevalence of inquiry from residency program applicants about GRT suggests that it may be a notable factor for applicants during the ranking process. Programs build up GRT may choose to share related information seeking to may choose to emphasize work in Global Radiology on their program webpages.