Residents’ perceptions of MRI training in the United States

Abstract

Purpose The primary objective of this exploratory study was to gain a better understanding of perceptions of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) training by US radiology residents. Methods Two surveys were administered between September 2002 and June 2003 to nonprobability-based samples totaling approximately 2000 residents, under the auspices of the ACR’s Resident Physician Section. The MRI Training Survey was administered in 2002, and it was supplemented by the Cardiac MRI Training Survey in 2003. The response rate for the MRI Training Survey was 15%, whereas the response rate for the Cardiac MRI Training Survey was 43%. Results The sample of residents surveyed comprised approximately 74% men; approximately 80% were in their third postgraduate year or higher. Eighty-five percent of residents reported the receipt of formal training in MRI physics. At least 60% did not have dedicated MRI rotations in either musculoskeletal or body MRI, and 89% lacked dedicated rotations in cardiac MRI. Seventy percent reported that they viewed overall MRI training as less than adequate; 94% stated that dedicated MRI training was warranted. Conclusions This preliminary research suggests that current MRI training may be less than residents feel is needed in many training programs. New comprehensive, electronically disseminated core curricula, as well as a potential future mandate for minimum training requirements by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education’s Radiology Residency Review Committee, may be necessary to strengthen MRI training at a time when the demand for radiology services is growing.