The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on radiology residents in Northern Italy #MMPMID33755754
Cavalieri S; Spinetta M; Zagaria D; Franchi M; Lavazza G; Nardelli F; Serafini A; Leone R; Messina A; Arpaia F; Buccimazza G; Carriero S; D'Angelo F; Stellato E; Giuri G; Balbi M; Preziosa GC; Parolise M; Pessina C; Romano S; Curti M; Capra D
Eur Radiol 2021[Sep]; 31 (9): 7077-7087 PMID33755754show ga
OBJECTIVES: To assess changes in working patterns and education experienced by radiology residents in Northwest Italy during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: An online questionnaire was sent to residents of 9 postgraduate schools in Lombardy and Piedmont, investigating demographics, changes in radiological workload, involvement in COVID-19-related activities, research, distance learning, COVID-19 contacts and infection, changes in training profile, and impact on psychological wellbeing. Descriptive and chi(2) statistics were used. RESULTS: Among 373 residents invited, 300 (80%) participated. Between March and April 2020, 44% (133/300) of respondents dedicated their full time to radiology; 41% (124/300) engaged in COVID-19-related activities, 73% (90/124) of whom working in COVID-19 wards; 40% (121/300) dedicated > 25% of time to distance learning; and 66% (199/300) were more involved in research activities than before the pandemic. Over half of residents (57%, 171/300) had contacts with COVID-19-positive subjects, 5% (14/300) were infected, and 8% (23/300) lost a loved one due to COVID-19. Only 1% (3/300) of residents stated that, given the implications of this pandemic scenario, they would not have chosen radiology as their specialty, whereas 7% (22/300) would change their subspecialty. The most common concerns were spreading the infection to their loved ones (30%, 91/300), and becoming sick (7%, 21/300). Positive changes were also noted, such as being more willing to cooperate with other colleagues (36%, 109/300). CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic changed radiology residents' training programmes, with distance learning, engaging in COVID-19-related activities, and a greater involvement in research becoming part of their everyday practice. KEY POINTS: * Of 300 participants, 44% were fully dedicated to radiological activity and 41% devoted time to COVID-19-related activities, 73% of whom to COVID-19 wards. * Distance learning was substantial for 40% of residents, and 66% were involved in research activities more than before the COVID-19 pandemic. * Over half of residents were exposed to COVID-19 contacts and less than one in twenty was infected.
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Eur+Radiol 2021 ; 31 (9): 7077-7087
