A qualitative, community-based needs assessment to inform the development of a radiology health equity curriculum

Abstract

Background

Recognizing barriers to care is crucial for radiologists to ensure equitable access and quality care for all patients. Health equity trainings have shown promising results in helping providers understand unique patient needs.

Purpose

To perform community-based focus groups to gather needs assessment data as the foundation for a health equity curriculum for radiology professionals.

Methods

We conducted focus groups to gather in-depth qualitative data regarding health inequities in radiology. Radiology residents, medical students, and community partners were recruited from two large academic medical centers, three medical schools, three radiology trainee programs, and five community organizations. Focus groups were conducted in-person and virtually from December 2022 to April 2023, recorded, and transcribed. Qualitative analysis with multiple coding of verbatim transcripts was performed by study staff, overseen by a senior analyst.

Results

Study participants included trainees (medical students, n = 19; and radiology residents, n = 6), and community partners (n = 14) across 4 focus groups. Three major themes emerged from our discussions: (1) Awareness of Healthcare Inequities, (2) A Gap Between Knowledge and Practice, and (3) Achieving Equity in Radiology Care. Trainees highlighted current gaps in education while expressing a desire to receive applied learning experiences to prevent gaps from widening. Community partners shared difficult experiences and expressed a desire to be heard.

Conclusion

Health equity training can help future radiologists better understand diverse patient needs. Fostering community partnerships can ensure that the voices of diverse communities guide the development of health equity curricula in radiology.