Radiology Residents Need More Hands-On MRI Education

Health Imaging (01/16/23) Murphy, Hannah

Researchers suggest in a paper in Academic Radiology that radiology residents can benefit from more magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-specific training outside of the standard curriculum. "Teaching [supplementary] material primarily through didactic lectures remains a standard approach despite known limitations," the authors contend. "A focused and more holistic, 'hands-on' approach to MRI education may help many residents meet, or exceed, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Diagnostic Radiology Milestones." The researchers evaluated a one-week immersive pilot course for MRI scanning and physics providing additional observation opportunities, hands-on practice, technologist engagement and peer-to-peer instruction. Residents who completed the course saw improved confidence and understanding about MRIs as well as increased MRI physics comprehension. Most participants found the course effective and engaging, and they responded most positively to hands-on MRI equipment/software training opportunities. The researchers conclude that enhanced MRI training "may lead to better communication, more consistent optimization of MRI image quality and improved patient care."

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