Factors that influence radiologists' career choices

The authors performed this study to examine the factors, particularly the modifiable factors, that influence the career choices of radiologists immediately after graduation from residency and later.

A survey was sent to 119 radiologists who had graduated from a large academic training program between 1981 and 2000. The graduates were asked to classify their first job and any subsequent jobs in academic radiology or private practice and to identify the reasons for their initial job choices and any job changes. A nested cohort study was performed to evaluate the effect of research experience on career choice.

Seventy-nine (66%) graduates responded to the survey. Forty-three (54%) of the respondents had chosen academic positions as their first jobs. Those who had published during their residency were 26.4 times more likely to choose an academic position as a first job. Twenty-four graduates had since left their academic jobs for private practice. Although the discrepancy in financial rewards between academic radiology and private practice was the main reason for the job switch in 71% of these cases, 33% of the respondents cited difficulty with research as a reason. In addition, only 25% of current academic radiologists were satisfied with their research activities.

An exodus from academic radiology to private practice is evident among graduates from this large academic residency program, with greater financial reward being the primary motivation. However, a positive research experience during residency could persuade more graduates to choose and to continue in an academic career.