Interview Techniques Utilized in Radiology Resident Selection-A Survey of the APDR

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology Residency Selection

Background:

• Traditional interview techniques are prevalent in diagnostic radiology resident selection.
• Unblinded, unstructured interviews remain the dominant method used by programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current interview techniques in diagnostic radiology residency selection.
• To identify factors influencing the adoption of alternative interview methods.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous 25-question e-mail survey was distributed to 319 members of the Association of Program Directors in Radiology.
• Statistical analysis was performed to correlate program characteristics with the use of alternative interview techniques.

Main Results:

• 93.7% of programs utilize traditional interview techniques, with 92% employing unblinded, unstructured interviews.
• Few programs incorporate alternative methods like the multiple mini-interview; structured questions are used by 22%.
• Program size and faculty numbers were associated with the adoption of alternative interview techniques.

Conclusions:

• The majority of radiology training programs continue to rely on traditional, unblinded interview formats.
• There is a significant opportunity for programs to explore alternative techniques that mitigate bias and enhance candidate assessment.