Canadian Radiology Medical Student Interest Groups: What They Are and How We Can Help Them Improve

Background: Radiology interest groups (RIGs) can serve as a means of increasing exposure of the radiology specialty early in the medical curriculum while also increasing educational opportunities. However, the organizational structure and various functions of individual RIGs in Canada are not well-documented. We performed a survey of all active RIGs in Canada for the purpose of better understanding their structure, function, and opportunities for improvement. Methods: A 21-question survey was sent to current or recent former medical student leaders of all active RIGs in Canada during the 2016-2017 academic year. Results: Radiology interest groups were identified in 88% (15/17) of Canadian medical schools. We received a 100% (15/15) response rate. Events held by RIGs consist mostly of lunch and learns (67%, 10/15), career panels (53%, 8/15), networking events (40%, 6/15), and curriculum-related events (40%, 6/15). General mentorship (93%, 13/14), shadowing opportunities (86%, 12/14), and research mentorship (63%, 8/14) were most often cited in their top 3 choices for opportunities for improvement. Sixty-six percent indicated that if a radiology society were to host a page for their interest group, they would be interested in posting content and/or links. Conclusions: Canadian RIGs offer increased early awareness and education about radiology in the medical curriculum. Radiology departments can facilitate improvement in Canadian RIGs through targeted institutional mentorship, research opportunities, and shadowing programs for their members.