Survey of the musculoskeletal radiology workforce: hybrid and remote (work from home) practice models

To assess current trends and impacts of hybrid (HYB) and work from home (WFH) practice models on the musculoskeletal (MSK) radiology workforce and explore implications for recruitment and the future of the subspecialty.

A 38-question voluntary, anonymous survey was distributed to the Society of Skeletal Radiology (SSR) membership (n = 1060). Descriptive statistics and chi-squared test were performed to analyze demographics, trends, and preferences for HYB-WFH practice models. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses identified perceptions and impacts of HYB-WFH.

The survey response rate was 30% (314 respondents). Most (89%) work in practices that support HYB-WFH. Most (84%) felt HYB-WFH was extremely (54%) or somewhat important (30%) but would not consider the job if it meant reduced compensation (56%) or higher productivity requirements (52%). HYB was the most desired work model (84%), followed by WFH (13%) and in-person (4%). Preference for HYB-WFH was associated with geographic residence, job location (urban/suburban/rural), and commute time (p < 0.05), but not age, gender, dependents, caregiver status, or career stage. Perceived benefits included improved work-life balance, job satisfaction, and productivity, with possible tradeoffs in career development, collegiality, and trainee education. Among 59% planning to change jobs in the next 5 years, motivating factors included workload (66%), compensation (54%), and HYB-WFH (39%). Most preferred HYB for their next job.

HYB-WFH practice models are strongly desired by the MSK workforce, regardless of age, gender, and life and career situation. Embracing HYB-WFH trends is key to supporting workforce sustainability and adapting to an evolving job market.