Evaluation of a mandatory radiology resident research rotation

Rationale and Objectives. This purpose of this study was to determine if a 1-month, mandatory research rotation results in resident interest and produ ctivity in research. Materials and Methods. A survey composed primarily of closed-end questions was constructed to evaluate the opinions and experience of 24 residents who completed the research rotation during a 3 1/2-year period. Results. All 24 residents filled our the survey. Seventeen residents did cl inical projects, two did bench research, and two did pr-ejects that were so cioeconomic or legal in nature. Thirteen residents presented data at a meet ing, and three of these presentations won awards. Resident research project s resulted in 18 manuscripts at the time of the survey (seven published, ei ght in preparation, and three in revision or review). Seventeen residents t hought the experience was worthwhile and the research month should be conti nued; two residents did not. Ten residents reported that in retrospect, the y would have done the rotation even if it had not been required, and eight reported the experience increased their appreciation of the value of resear ch in medicine. Conclusion. A 1-month, mandatory resident research rotation produces reside nt interest in research and enhances departmental research productivity.