Prevalence of Diversity Statements and Disability Inclusion Among Radiology Residency Program Websites

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Diversity and Inclusion in Healthcare
• Radiology Training

Background:

• Radiology acknowledges the need for greater diversity, including racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, and disability representation.
• Despite diversity initiatives, studies indicate a lack of diversity among radiology residents.
• Existing research highlights the importance of disability diversity and inclusion efforts in medical fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diversity statements on diagnostic radiology residency program websites.
• To assess the extent to which these statements include underrepresented groups: race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and disability.
• To identify the prevalence and specificity of diversity statements across radiology residency programs.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, observational study analyzed websites of diagnostic radiology residency programs listed in the Electronic Residency Application Service directory.
• Websites were audited for the presence and specificity (residency, department, or institution level) of diversity statements.
• Statements were evaluated for the inclusion of four key diversity categories: race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and disability.

Main Results:

• Out of 158 analyzed websites, 65.1% (n=103) had a diversity statement.
• Residency program-specific statements were present on only 18% of websites, and department-specific statements on 14%.
• Gender diversity was most frequently included (43.0%), followed by race/ethnicity (39.9%), sexual orientation (32.9%), and disability (25.3%).

Conclusions:

• Less than 20% of radiology residency websites feature diversity statements, with disability being the least represented category.
• A more comprehensive diversity and inclusion approach is needed in radiology, particularly for disability representation.
• Improving diversity statements can help overcome systemic barriers and promote a greater sense of belonging for all individuals in radiology.