Evaluating current and recent fellows’ perceptions on the interventional radiology residency: Results of a United States survey

Purpose To evaluate current and recent interventional radiology (IR) fellows’ perceptions on the new integrated IR residency. Materials and methods An anonymous, web-based survey was distributed to 82 current and recent IR fellows across the Unites States. The survey contained 15 questions, most of which were based on a five-point Likert scale. The survey was open for a three-week period in September 2015. The results were analyzed by two trainees and three IR attending physicians. Results Sixty-four current or recent former IR fellows completed the survey (response rate 78%). Of these 18% decided to pursue a career in IR by the end of their third year of medical school. A majority believed that the integrated IR residency will be an improved IR training pathway (62%). Based on current medical school curricula, 74% either disagreed or strongly disagreed that IR residency applicants will be ready to select such a pathway by the end of their third year of medical school. Conclusions Most current and recent IR fellows surveyed chose IR during their final year of medical school or during residency. Most respondents believe that the integrated IR residency will be an improved IR training pathway.