Peer-review started: July 31, 2016
First decision: September 2, 2016
Revised: October 25, 2016
Accepted: December 1, 2016
Article in press: December 2, 2016
Published online: February 28, 2017
Processing time: 212 Days and 12.4 Hours
To assess the state of radiology education across Europe by means of a survey study.
A comprehensive 23-item radiology survey was distributed via email to the International Society of Radiology members, national radiological societies, radiologists and medical physicists. Reminders to complete the survey were sent and the results were analyzed over a period of 4 mo (January-April 2016). Survey questions include length of medical school and residency training; availability of fellowship and subspecialty training; number of residency programs in each country; accreditation pathways; research training; and medical physics education. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and summarize data.
Radiology residency training ranges from 2-6 years with a median of 5 years, and follows 1 year of internship training in 55% (12 out of 22) European countries. Subspecialty fellowship training is offered in 55% (12 out of 22) European countries. Availability for specialization training by national societies is limited to eight countries. For nearly all respondents, less than fifty percent of radiologists travel abroad for specialization. Nine of 22 (41%) European countries have research requirements during residency. The types of certifying exam show variation where 64% (14 out of 22) European countries require both written and oral boards, 23% (5 out of 22) require oral examinations only, and 5% (1 out of 22) require written examinations only. A degree in medical physics is offered in 59% (13 out of 22) European countries and is predominantly taught by medical physicists. Nearly all respondents report that formal examinations in medical physics are required.
Comparative learning experiences across the continent will help guide the development of comprehensive yet pragmatic infrastructures for radiology education and collaborations in radiology education worldwide.
Core tip: The authers report survey results of radiology education across 22 European countries with respect to length of training, subspecialty fellowship availability, research opportunities, and national certification and credentialing. Given the diversity in training requirements and its impact on cross-border training recognition, our results provide important insights to understand radiology education and its potential on portability across different countries in Europe.