Formal mentorship in Canadian radiology residency programmes

AIM: To characterise formal mentorship programmes in Canadian radiology residency pro-grammes, to evaluate residents' perspectives on formal mentorship, and to identify ways to optimise mentorship during radiology training.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An anonymous survey was distributed to radiology resident representatives of the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) Resident and Fellow Section (RFS). Questions pertained to the presence and structure of formal mentorship programmes at each participant's institution.RESULTS: The survey was distributed to 33 radiology residents, of which 30 responded. All 16 accredited radiology residency programmes in Canada were represented. Of these pro-grammes, 12 (75%) had formal mentorship programmes and four (25%) did not. The structure of formal mentorship programmes varied among institutions including one-on-one and group mentoring. For 33% of residency programmes, the programme director assigned the mentor and mentee groups. Only 33% of respondents had the option of choosing their mentor. Lack of funding and lack of time were the two main perceived barriers by residents to maintaining mentorship relationships.CONCLUSION: Although not all radiology residency programmes in Canada have a formal mentorship programme, most have a form of structured mentorship in place. As formal mentorship programmes improve overall mentorship experience during residency, they can lead to improved research productivity, fellowship, and career preparation, as well as work-life balance for Canadian radiology residents.& COPY; 2023 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The Royal College of Radiologists.