Access to statistical support for medical imaging research: questionnaire survey of UK radiology trainees

AIM: To investigate the level of statistical support available to UK radiology trainees, and to gather opinions regarding how support may affect their current and future research aspirations.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online survey was developed, piloted, and distributed to radiology trainees via the UK Radiology Academic Network for Trainees and training pro-gramme directors. Research experience, research aspirations, available and desired statistical support, and attitudes to statistics were surveyed and responses were collated.RESULTS: Seventy-nine responses were received, only two (3%) of whom had allocated time for research. Only three (4%) respondents were content with their statistical support whereas 25 (32%) reported insufficient statistical support; 13 (52%) of these believed this impacted considerably on research aspirations. Sixty-six (84%) respondents desired dedicated statis-tical support, 40 (61%) of whom stated the amount required would likely be moderate and 26 (39%) significant. Respondents believed support would be most helpful to analyse data already collected (41 responses, 54%) rather than research planning (25, 33%). Most re-spondents (60, 76%) had used self-help methods to learn research statistics but only 21 (35%) found this useful.CONCLUSION: Training schemes must improve the provision, access to, and awareness of statistical support so that any research efforts are performed to a high standard. Trainees should not be expected to participate in research without sufficient time, mentorship, and statistical support.(c) 2022 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study investigated the level of statistical support available to UK radiology trainees and found that the majority of trainees were not satisfied with the current support and believed it had a considerable impact on their research aspirations. They desired more dedicated statistical support, particularly in the area of data analysis.