Serving Up Science with Cheese Sauce
How many parents have tried to coax their children into eating what's good for them by disguising it with something they think they will enjoy? Few kids like broccoli alone but all kids like cheese sauce—it's no secret that more kids will eat broccoli dressed with a cheddar ribbon.
 James A. Brink, M.D. |
Most practicing radiologists enjoy educational activities akin to that cheese sauce—that is, activities directly applicable to their jobs. They may know that radiology's future lies in the science of medical imaging and intervention—the broccoli—but few see direct benefits to their daily practice and therefore are less inclined to attend scientific sessions than educational activities.
As a result, RSNA has sought ways to mix education with science and stimulate interest in new scientific developments for our specialty. A few years ago, the RSNA Refresher Course and Scientific Program committees developed new hybrid courses—series courses—that blend classic scientific sessions and refresher courses focused on similar topics.
Results of the first series courses suggested a few important lessons. Topics best suited for blending science with education are of high interest and applicable to common clinical problems in radiology as well as being fairly homogeneous and well-focused.
Series courses have increased in popularity since their inception. The greatest success has been in pediatric radiology, where subspecialists have eagerly embraced the blending of science and education. This enthusiasm has spread to other disciplines, where attendance has been strong and feedback generally positive.
This enthusiasm bodes well for radiology's future. Only by embracing science may we hope to translate new developments into clinical practice.
Put another way: We all know broccoli is good for us, but a little cheese sauce never hurts.
