EMERGENCY RADIOLOGY SERVICES AT MEDICAL-SCHOOLS IN THE UNITED-STATES

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES. Little has been published on the delivery of emergency radiologic services in academic radiology training programs. METHODS. The author surveyed 127 medical schools in the United States concerning aspects of radiology services for their emergency rooms, including who interprets images, what training in emergency radiology is provided, and problems with film retrieval. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS. Emergency department radiographs most often are initially interpreted by a radiology resident and subsequently reviewed by a faculty radiologist who does not have a major interest in or time commitment to emergency radiology. Most schools describe problems such as disappearance of emergency department films and a paucity of provided clinical information. Only one third of schools provide formal instruction in emergency radiology for their radiology residents.