The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on radiology residents in Northern Italy

Abstract

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 χ2 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.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Radiology Resident Education: Where Do We Go From Here?

“… 11 However without recordings, it may be difficult for some residents to participate due to clinical workload, time differences, and other commitments. 2 Regional and national conferences were largely hosted virtually, 5 , 6 , 20 , 26 , 27 with some cancellations. 10 , 21 Having conferences held virtually allows international attendees to participate more easily and keeping virtual options for conferences should be considered moving forward.…”

“… 31 The extent of redeployment varied between institutions, which was dependent on regional COVID-19 case rates. 4 , 11 , 27 , 35 , 36 Although redeployment could limit refinement of diagnostic radiology skills, there may be a role for radiology resident exposure to direct patient care activities, as seen in residents redeployed to intensive care wards. 37 These experiences with patients and their family members provides important clinical context for radiologists-in-training.…”

“…Some residents felt that the circumstances of the pandemic led to an increase in willingness to cooperate with colleagues. 27 Centralizing virtual platforms for meeting and communication including Zoom, Webex, Microsoft Teams, Gotomeeting, and Google Meet proved to be effective. 6 , 7 , 8 , 36 , 50 Combatting social isolation and offering a platform for peer support suggests a role for virtual meetings, phone calls, and social media such as Twitter, Instagram, or Slack.…”

“…The impact of COVID-19 on residents’ personal lives was one of the most common concerns. 8 , 10 , 27 , 51 Many residents reported increased stress related to the pandemic, a part of which may be attributed to redeployment. 8 , 23 , 52 Residents experiencing barriers such as technical difficulties, childcare, or a lack of an office space, were less likely to adhere to virtual learning and felt more likely to fall behind in comparison with their peers.…”

The impact of COVID-19 upon student radiographers and clinical training in Latin America

“…17 In an Italian study with 300 radiology residents, 66.7% indicated a correct use of PPE, social distancing, and hygienic prevention, and only 4.7% were infected by COVID-19. 18…”