Learning Objectives
In the radiology introductory course, electives and senior clerkship at IU School of Medicine, the curriculum focuses on two key learning objectives.
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Ordering Tests: Students learn which common clinical situations warrant radiological imaging and which test(s) to order first. For example, in a patient presenting with new neurologic symptoms, would CT or MR be more appropriate, and is intravenous contrast material needed? The school relies on the American College of Radiology’s Appropriateness Criteria for evidence-based guidance.
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Interpreting Images: Students learn how to detect, describe and offer appropriate differential diagnoses for abnormalities on common imaging examinations, including chest radiographs, abdominal radiographs, head and body CT scans, and ultrasound examinations of the abdomen and pelvis. This pertains especially to urgent findings such as pneumothorax, pneumoperitoneum, intracranial hemorrhage, and appendicitis.
Subspecialty Training
Subspecialty learning opportunities in the area of radiology and imaging sciences are also available to medical students. For example, the nuclear medicine division offers rotation electives for third- and fourth-year med students. With these opportunities, the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences hopes to provide top-notch radiology education for a very large group of future physicians.