Pediatric radiology at the millennium

Radiology. 2001 Jul;220(1):109-14. doi: 10.1148/radiology.220.1.r01jl42109.

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the current practice of and job market for pediatric radiologists in the United States and Canada with a 1998 survey and compare findings with those of surveys from 1980 and 1989.

Materials and methods: Surveys were mailed to the 728 active members of the Society for Pediatric Radiology. Questions covered professional practice, subspecialization, and involvement in evolving technologies. A pediatric radiology help-wanted index was generated from a diagnostic radiology help-wanted index.

Results: Increasing involvement in the interpretation of computed tomographic, ultrasonographic, and magnetic resonance images was found among the 57% (411 of 728) of the members who responded. The attainment of a certificate of added qualification in pediatric radiology was found in nearly three-fourths of the membership, and 85% (348 of 408) had completed a fellowship. More than half of the respondents were involved in interventional procedures amid a continued increase in volume; 24% (100 of 409) of the membership, as compared with 7% in the 1980 survey, was practicing in a community or "other" setting. Subspecialization within pediatric radiology had diminished, and there was a larger percentage of female pediatric radiologists, particularly among the newest members. The job market was robust, having recovered substantially since the middle 1990s.

Conclusion: The practice of pediatric radiology has evolved, with increasing involvement in advanced techniques and modalities, as well as a greater presence in community settings. The help-wanted index supports the recent discussions of a personnel shortfall.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Canada
  • Career Choice*
  • Data Collection
  • Employment / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pediatrics* / trends
  • Radiology* / trends
  • Societies, Medical
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States
  • Workforce