Radiology trainee and attending satisfaction with virtual readouts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: In response to COVID-19, our institution implemented three virtual readout systems: a commercial HIPAA compliant web-based video conferencing platform used for screen-sharing (Starleaf), an interactive control sharing system integrated into PACS allowing simultaneous multi-user mouse control over images (Collaborate), and the telephone. Our aim was to assess overall satisfaction with and perceived effectiveness of these virtual readout methods to optimize best practices for the future. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An IRB-exempt survey was electronically distributed to 64 trainees and 76 attendings at one tertiary-care institution via Survey Monkey. Questions focused on overall satisfaction, perceived effectiveness, technical difficulties, and continued future use of the three virtual readout strategies. Answers were collected with Likert scales, tick boxes, and open-ended questions. RESULTS: 32/64 trainees (50%) and 32/76 attendings (42%) completed the survey. Trainees and attendings were more satisfied with screen sharing (Starleaf) and perceived it more effective than control sharing (Collaborate) or the telephone (p < 0.0001). Respondents experienced more technical difficulties with control sharing versus screen sharing (p = 0.0004) with a negative correlation between level of technical difficulties and satisfaction with screen sharing (r = -0.50, p < 0.0001) and control sharing (r = -0.38, p = 0.0006). Trainees and faculty supported a combination of in-person and virtual readouts in the future (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Platforms mirroring in-person readouts, such as Starleaf, are preferred by both trainees and attendings over non-screen sharing platforms such as the telephone. However, technical stability determines satisfaction between similar platforms. Both trainees and attendings support incorporation of virtual readout methods in combination with traditional in-person readouts in the post-COVID-19 era.

Resident Experiences With Virtual Radiology Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: COVID-19 has disrupted radiology education and forced a transition from traditional in-person learning to a virtual platform. As a result of hospital and state mandates, our radiology residency program quickly transitioned to a virtual learning platform to continue dissemination of knowledge, maintain resident engagement, and ensure professional development. The goal of this study is to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the virtual learning platform at our institution using resident ratings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This institutional IRB-exempt study involved a survey of 17 questions which was electronically distributed to 45 radiology residents using SurveyMonkey. Questions encompassed resident satisfaction with teaching and professional development, scheduling changes, and engagement with the virtual platform. Answers to most questions were submitted on a Likert scale. RESULTS: A total of 31 of 45 respondents completed the survey (response rate = 69%). Most residents were satisfied with the virtual platform with teaching activities identified as a strength and the incorporation of professional development as a weakness. The most frequent barriers to attending the virtual curriculum were technical difficulties (43%) and childcare (36%). Residents who reported experiencing barriers were less likely to adhere to the virtual curriculum (p = 0.004). Most respondents (81%) reported a desire to maintain elements of the virtual learning practice postpandemic. CONCLUSION: The majority of residents reported high satisfaction with virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teaching activities are a curricular strength. Weaknesses identified include the incorporation of professional development and extrinsic barriers, such as technical difficulties and family obligations, which require further support for trainees.