Progressing to the new normal: Teaching in radiology during COVID-19 at a major institution in Mexico

Abstract

Background: SARS-CoV-2 poses challenges to medical education. Radiology is remarkably poised for such burdens, given its considerable dependence on various technologies. Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate infrastructural and procedural changes in a radiology department (RD) in response to the pandemic and the academic impact these changes generated. Methods: The RD of the UANL sustained significant alterations to maintain its residency program’s integrity. Explored modifications include: Implementing remote learning opportunities, real-time software and technologies, and virtually administered competency evaluations. Results: Despite departmental adaptations, the RD preserved the overall quality of resident education with an increased specialty in June and July of 65.2%. The total number of academic activities more than doubled compared to June and July of 2019. Remote technologies allow for the continuance of medical training and maintained interactions with peers and attending physicians. Conclusion: Radiology training must continue amidst the pandemic. For this to occur, traditional radiology training must change. Interventions must preserve the educational integrity of the residency programs while minimizing risk to trainees. While these changes were necessary to combat viral spread, their proven utility may prompt sustained medical training integration.

Keywords

• SARS CoV-2. Radiology education.Post-pandemic education. Medical education.New normality in medical education.