Integrating evidence-based imaging into the radiology core clerkship: a proposed teaching tool of imaging strategies.

Abstract

Despite an increasing emphasis on incorporating evidence-based practice into medical student education curricula, no previous work has specifically addressed the incorporation of evidence-based imaging strategies into a radiology clerkship. The authors therefore introduced an evidence-based imaging curriculum during the required radiology core clerkship at their institution and then formally evaluated the sessions. From March 2007 to March 2008, 150 students in the radiology core clerkship underwent a didactic session on the principles of evidence-based imaging and then participated in a small-group case-based session. At the end of the clinical rotation, students evaluated the exercise for its effectiveness in teaching imaging strategies and its impact on their future careers. Of the 134 students (89%) who responded, 119 (89%) felt challenged to think differently about radiology as a result of these sessions, 129 (96%) believed that they had a better understanding of the indications for certain imaging tests than before the experience, and 119 (89%) were certain that they would use this information later in their careers. The majority, 86 of 134 (64%), preferred the interactive small-group session over a didactic session. Students praised the opportunity to work in teams, work on common clinical scenarios, and gain some awareness of the costs of different imaging tests. A minority of students cited concern for the high volume of information presented per session and a preference to cover more scenarios per session. An evidence-based imaging curriculum was comfortably integrated into a required radiology clerkship and was well received by students.