Evaluation of a mandatory radiology resident research rotation

This purpose of this study was to determine if a 1-month, mandatory research rotation results in resident interest and productivity in research.

A survey composed primarily of closed-end questions was constructed to evaluate the opinions and experience of 24 residents who completed the research rotation during a 3 1/2-year period.

All 24 residents filled out the survey. Seventeen residents did clinical projects, two did bench research, and two did projects that were socioeconomic or legal in nature. Thirteen residents presented data at a meeting, and three of these presentations won awards. Resident research projects resulted in 18 manuscripts at the time of the survey (seven published, eight in preparation, and three in revision or review). Seventeen residents thought the experience was worthwhile and the research month should be continued; two residents did not. Ten residents reported that in retrospect, they would have done the rotation even if it had not been required, and eight reported the experience increased their appreciation of the value of research in medicine.

A 1-month, mandatory resident research rotation produces resident interest in research and enhances departmental research productivity.