Jay Parikh, MD
Professor, Department of Breast Imaging, Division of Diagnostic Imaging
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Chair, ARRS Quality and Practice Subcommittee
Over the past two decades, the practice of radiology has changed, with radiologists having become more isolated. With the digital revolution precipitating widespread implementation of both EHR and PAC systems, radiologists have increasingly worked from workstations with less patient contact and decreasing personal interactions with referring clinicians.
The COVID-19 pandemic further isolated radiologists. The initial social distancing requirements, use of PPE, promotion of remote work environments, and reduced meaningful social interactions during this era have amplified the loneliness of radiologists.
As humans, radiologists have a fundamental need to socially connect. And for good reasons: social isolation and loneliness, markers of poor social health [1], have been associated with multiple adverse psychological outcomes, especially sleep fragmentation [2], as well as anxiety and depressive symptoms. Studies suggest loneliness is a risk factor for stroke, as well as for hypertension, cognitive decline, and progression of Alzheimer’s dementia [3]. Restoring a sense of community—at work and beyond—can help radiologists overcome isolation, improve their overall wellness, and mitigate significant health issues.
How does a radiologist do so?
Radiology is a team sport, in which radiologists interact daily with patients, non-clinical staff, technologists, and other radiologists. In the workplace, these interactions can be leveraged to create a sense of community. A positive attitude among teammates can help create a bond of positive energy. Social gatherings organized by the clinical team, both within and outside of the department, can help further create camaraderie between members of the team.
Radiologists also have opportunities to develop connections with referring clinicians. Multidisciplinary tumor boards offer a unique opportunity for radiologists to interface directly or virtually with referring clinicians and become engaged in the care of complex patients. This collaborative atmosphere promotes personal job satisfaction.
Organizations can be instrumental in supporting a culture of community at work. Physician lounges provide a safe space for radiologists to interface with physicians from other specialties. Organization-led social events, such as fundraisers and family outings, may further promote a sense of collegiality.
Beyond the organization, another way for radiologists to connect with colleagues is to attend regional and national society meetings. A great example is the ARRS Annual Meeting, to be held next year from April 27 through May 1 in the beautiful backdrop of California’s San Diego marina. A wonderful medium to cross-fertilize ideas, this meeting offers opportunities to not only learn educational content from leading experts, but also to socialize and collaborate with other radiologists from around the globe.
2025 ARRS Wellness Symposium: Building a Radiology Community of Positivity
Helping us move forward in the wellbeing space during the ARRS Annual Meeting, our 2025 Radiology Wellness Symposium in San Diego will lay out a lot of the hard work done by many imaging centers to shift the narrative in our working environments. The widespread shortage of radiologists, combined with higher volumes and the prevalence of burnout, has been challenging radiology practices of all types.
Focused on hard-won practical solutions for workforce belonging and overall positivity, multi-generational leaders in radiology education, operations, and informatics will tackle the differing approaches for schedule optimization, multiple strategies to help those trainees who are unwell, better incorporation of international medical graduates, and the many benefits of proper coaching and mentoring.
As with all ARRS Annual Meeting sessions, live and virtual audience interaction remains welcome, especially during our question-and-answer portions, so I hope to see you in San Diego or online for the “2025 ARRS Wellness Symposium: Building a Radiology Community of Positivity!”
References
- Campagne D. Stress and Perceived Social Isolation (Loneliness). Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2019. May–Jun; 82:192–199. doi: 10.1016/j.archger.2019.02.007
- Griffin SC, Williams AB, Ravyts SC, et al. Loneliness and Sleep: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Health Psychol Open 2020. Jan–Jun; 7:2055102920913235. doi: 10.1177/2055102920913235
- Byrne C, Saville CWN, Coetzer R, et al. Stroke Survivors Experience Elevated Levels of Loneliness: A Multi-Year Analysis of the National Survey for Wales. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2022 Feb 23; 37:390-407. doi: 10.1093/arclin/acab046