Understanding the Awareness, Knowledge and Perceptions of Interventional Radiology Amongst Undergraduates in the UK

Introduction The role of interventional radiology (IR) in health care is rapidly expanding in the United Kingdom (UK). However, the presence of IR in the current undergraduate curriculum is lacking. Purpose This study investigates the awareness, knowledge and perceptions of IR in undergraduates through the clinical years of medical school to suggest future interventions. Methods A total of 360 questionnaires, designed to test undergraduates' knowledge of, and exposure to, IR were distributed over a 14-day period in a UK medical institution. Results Of the 312 respondents (86.7%), the majority had never formally shadowed a radiologist (65.4%) or encountered teaching from an interventional radiologist (54.5%). Most students (88.5%) felt their knowledge of IR was lower than other specialties. Students' knowledge of IR procedures did not statistically increase through the clinical years. Students were most cognisant of vascular procedures and least aware of IR's role in oncology. Only 10.9% would consider a career in IR, with 39.7% citing the lack of knowledge and 18.6% citing patient contact as the top reasons for this. Conclusion Current students have poor exposure to IR through the undergraduate curriculum. Consequently, there is no increase in knowledge of IR clinical practice through the clinical years. Multi-level interventions, incorporating universities and radiological societies are required to increase undergraduate awareness and promote IR as a career.