Core curriculum: research ethics for radiology residents

Scholarly activity, which may include research, is now a required element of resident training. In addition, residents are required to participate in a systems-based practice or quality improvement project. Residency programs are expected to provide training for these endeavors but may lack the necessary resources. This work is intended to provide a core curriculum in research ethics for radiology residents to help fulfill that need.

The material was developed through discussion and collaboration of the authors, review of pertinent literature, and consultation with experts in the field.

This work includes a brief introduction to the topic, followed by cases designed to highlight the issues inherent in informed consent, privacy, the disclosure of results, authorship, study subjects, and health services research.

Radiology residents are expected to learn about the design, performance, reporting, and critical evaluation of research. All of these elements can potentially raise ethical issues. Understanding the underlying ethical issues is critical for the future of radiology research.