Improving pediatric radiology in India

Background India had a population of 1,259,271,000 in 2012, with 31% of its population composed of children younger than 15 years. In comparison, children younger than 15 compose 20% of the population in the United States and 16% in Canada. Despite the differences in this demographic, little emphasis is placed on pediatric radiology in India. Objective To conduct a needs assessment evaluating the adequacy of pediatric radiology in India and to establish a pediatric radiology education program in India. Materials and methods We developed a questionnaire to assess radiologists’ perspective on the quality of training in pediatric radiology. Responses were obtained from attendees at a pediatric radiology education program in Mumbai. These data were used to obtain funding and implement a program to increase awareness and stimulate pediatric radiology training at select institutions across India. Results Out of 86 respondents, 82% indicated that their academic institutions did not place emphasis on dedicated pediatric radiology training, and 63% indicated they received less than 2 weeks of dedicated training. Of the respondents, 77% said their institutions practiced pediatric radiology with inadequate standard of care and 75% of respondents said pediatric radiology would gain increasing importance in the future. Outcomes of the implemented program included increased awareness of pediatric radiology and establishment of a pediatric radiology fellowship program in India. Conclusion Education and training in pediatric radiology in India is inadequate. Focused initiatives have the potential to improve the standards set for pediatric radiology in India. Similar initiatives could help develop pediatric radiology in other developing countries.