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OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the delivery of preventative care and management of acute diseases. This study assesses the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on coronary calcium score and coronary CT angiography imaging volume. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single institution retrospective review of consecutive patients presenting for coronary calcium score or coronary CT angiography examinations between January 1, 2020 to January 4, 2022 was performed. The weekly volume of calcium score and coronary CT angiogram exams were compared. RESULTS: In total, 1,817 coronary calcium score CT and 5,895 coronary CT angiogram examinations were performed. The average weekly volume of coronary CTA and coronary calcium score CT exams decreased by up to 83% and 100%, respectively, during the COVID-19 peak period compared to baseline (P < 0.0001). The post-COVID recovery through 2020 saw weekly coronary CTA volumes rebound to 86% of baseline (P = 0.024), while coronary calcium score CT volumes remained muted at only a 53% recovery (P < 0.001). In 2021, coronary CTA imaging eclipsed pre-COVID rates (P = 0.012), however coronary calcium score CT volume only reached 67% of baseline (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A significant decrease in both coronary CTA and coronary calcium score CT volume occurred during the peak-COVID-19 period. In 2020 and 2021, coronary CTA imaging eventually superseded baseline rates, while coronary calcium score CT volumes only reached two thirds of baseline. These findings highlight the importance of resumption of screening exams and should prompt clinicians to be aware of potential undertreatment of patients with coronary artery disease.
RESUMEN
PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a virtual information session hosted by a diagnostic radiology residency program at addressing applicant concerns about the 2020-2021 interview cycle and highlighting key aspects of the residency program. METHODS: Participants were recruited to attend the virtual information session over a 2-week period via social media and communication with medical school radiology interest groups. Attendees were able to submit questions or topics of interest prior to the session. The virtual information session was hosted by trainees and faculty from a radiology residency. Data regarding the demographics of the attendees and the efficacy of the session were obtained through interactive live polling during the virtual session and a voluntary anonymous postsession survey. RESULTS: A total of 171 attendees participated in the virtual information session. Of the attendees, 42% learned about the session from Twitter and 72% were fourth-year medical students applying for residency. Among topics addressed during the session, attendees indicated that they were most interested in learning about "Application strategies during COVID-19" during an in-session poll. On the post-session survey, 96% of attendees reported being more knowledgeable about the residency program culture and the breadth of research and educational opportunities. CONCLUSION: Given the virtual nature of the 2020-2021 residency application cycle, utilization of web-based platforms for recruitment will be essential. Virtual information sessions can be effective at providing insight into aspects of a residency program that are typically gained during the in-person interview experience.