Teaching the Technology: Evaluating a Video-Based PACS Curriculum for Radiology Residents

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging Informatics
• Radiology Education

Background:

• Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) is crucial in radiology.
• Effective training for PACS viewer proficiency presents a significant challenge for residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a video-based curriculum on radiology residents' confidence and technical skills in using PACS viewer tools.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study involved first-year (R1) and second-year (R2) radiology residents.
• The intervention group received a 30-minute instructional video on PACS tools.
• The control group received no additional training; both groups were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The intervention group demonstrated a significant increase in self-reported PACS confidence (p<0.01).
• Residents who received video training completed PACS tasks significantly faster than the control group (p=0.04).
• Sustained higher confidence levels were observed in the intervention group at the R2 level.

Conclusions:

• A video-based curriculum effectively enhances radiology residents' PACS technical skills and confidence.
• Formal technical training, supplementing on-the-job learning, is vital for reinforcing PACS viewer proficiency.
• This approach can improve resident preparedness and efficiency in radiological practice.