A Multimedia Strategy to Integrate Introductory Broad-Based Radiation Science Education in US Medical Schools

US physicians in multiple specialties who order or conduct radiological procedures lack formal radiation science education and thus sometimes order procedures of limited benefit or fail to order what is necessary. To this end, a multidisciplinary expert group proposed an introductory broad-based radiation science educational program for US medical schools. Suggested preclinical elements of the curriculum include foundational education on ionizing and nonionizing radiation (eg, definitions, dose metrics, and risk measures) and short-and long-term radiation-related health effects as well as introduction to radiology, radiation therapy, and radiation pro-tection concepts. Recommended clinical elements of the curriculum would impart knowledge and practical experience in radiology, fluoroscopically guided procedures, nuclear medicine, radiation oncology, and identification of patient subgroups requiring special considerations when selecting specific ionizing or nonionizing diagnostic or therapeutic radiation procedures. Critical components of the clinical program would also include educational material and direct experience with patient-centered communication on benefits of, risks of, and shared decision making about ionizing and nonionizing radiation procedures and on health effects and safety re-quirements for environmental and occupational exposure to ionizing and nonionizing radiation. Overarching is the introduction to evidence-based guidelines for procedures that maximize clinical benefit while limiting unnecessary risk. The content would be further developed, directed, and integrated within the curriculum by local faculties and would address multiple standard elements of the Liaison Committee on Medical Education and Core Entrustable Professional Activities for Entering Residency of the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Automated summary

US physicians often lack formal radiation science education, leading to inappropriate ordering of radiological procedures. A proposed educational program aims to provide foundational knowledge on radiation science, radiology, and radiation protection, as well as practical experience in various radiological procedures. The curriculum also emphasizes patient-centered communication and evidence-based guidelines for maximizing benefit and minimizing risk.