From April 27-30, the CAR Annual Scientific Meeting returned to an in-person event and welcomed over 650 participants. The meeting was hosted at a new venue – Le Westin Montréal and the theme for this year’s meeting was Advancing Imaging Care Through Innovation. The standing-room-only event drew radiologists, radiology directors, fellows, residents, medical students, sonographers, and medical radiation technologists as well as industry vendors from across Canada. The weekend featured stellar educational sessions with expert speakers, engaging networking opportunities, an award ceremony that spotlighted a presidential transition, and many more amazing events. [Read more…] about CAR 2023 – A Tremendous Success!
Search Results for: annual meeting
RSNA 2022 – Together Again!
The CAR could not have been more pleased to return to Chicago for the Radiological Society of North America’s Annual Meeting from November 27 – 30. With over 300 presenters, Canadian radiologists certainly made their mark on the international stage. [Read more…] about RSNA 2022 – Together Again!
Main Objectives of the CAR Affiliate Societies
The CAR Affiliate Societies protect and advocate for your profession by addressing your needs and priorities. Join the Affiliate Societies in your specialty and obtain more knowledge by collecting resources and networking with fellow influencers. Come and collaborate with us and make a difference. [Read more…] about Main Objectives of the CAR Affiliate Societies
An Inside Look into RSNA 2021
In late November 2021, the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) returned to Chicago to host their annual meeting and it was a success. In 2020 the RSNA opted to cancel the in-person component of their annual meeting, offering an exclusively virtual event. This was done for safety reasons and to minimize the spread of COVID. This year with most of the [physician] population having been vaccinated, the RSNA felt it was safe to return to in-person networking, while also offering a virtual component. Several Canadians attended the meeting, and their experience was positive. We had the opportunity to connect with some CAR members who provided us with a recap of their experience.
[Read more…] about An Inside Look into RSNA 2021
Take Part in the CAR 2022 Abstract Competition
The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) Abstract Competition is back for another year.
The CAR and the Canadian Radiological Foundation (CRF) will be supporting the annual abstract competitions for radiologists and radiologists-in-training to be presented at CAR 2022 in five abstract categories – Departmental Clinical Audit Project, Radiologist-In-Training Research Project, Scientific Research Project, Value of Radiology Project. The top-ranking Educational Exhibit digital presentations will be awarded prizes and celebrated at the CAR Awards Ceremony. [Read more…] about Take Part in the CAR 2022 Abstract Competition
Canada Meets ECR 2020 – How Canada’s taking centre-stage in Europe
With the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) less than two months away, now is the time to register to reserve your spot. [Read more…] about Canada Meets ECR 2020 – How Canada’s taking centre-stage in Europe
Act now! Renew your CAR Membership
It's time to renew your 2020 CAR membership!
We have been hard at work adding new benefits for CAR members to increase the value of membership. Renew before December 15, 2019, for a chance to win a stay at Le Westin Montreal.
What does your CAR membership provide?
- A National Voice advocating for radiologists in Canada
- RAD Academy - Free online learning and section 3 SAP radiology CPD
- Subscription to the CARJ, Canada's #1 journal for radiologists
- Reduced annual subscription to STATdx, an online diagnostic decision support tool
- Access to MD Financial Management's services.
- BMS Insurance, coverage for business, employment and cyber insurance
- TD Insurance for home and auto coverage through CAR group plan
- 15% discount on the CAR's Annual Scientific Meeting
- Invitation to the RSNA's annual meeting, December 1st, 2019 in Chicago, IL, USA
- Opportunity to participate in one of our 25 national working groups that help shape the radiology profession
- Membership with The Rounds, Canadian based social networking platform for healthcare professionals
- A Resident Resource Section specifically dedicated to learning for radiologists in training
- Access to radiology resources such as clinical practice guidelines and more
The CAR is here for you. Our goal is to make our members more successful in their practices by providing value added benefits, guidelines and resources. Renew your membership today and continue to be part of the national voice for radiology in Canada.
The Rundown on yet Another Successful Day on the Hill and International Day of Radiology
On October 8th, radiologists and professionals from related fields celebrated the seventh International Day of Radiology (IDOR) across the globe.
ACR Reports
CAR Resident Reports - ACR Annual Meetings
The CAR is delighted to support the participation of two Canadian residents in the American College of Radiology's (ACR) annual meetings, including the Resident and Fellow Section (RFS) sessions.
The meeting, which generally takes place in May in Washington DC, focuses on the need for radiologists to show leadership as the profession faces rapid changes, including growing pressures towards commoditization.
Below are the full reports produced by the participating CAR residents on the resident and fellow sessions as well as the guest speakers.
2019 CAR Residents' Report
Resources
Resident and Fellow Section
Who We Are
Current pressures on the profession are creating a tremendous opportunity to redefine who radiologists are and what radiologists do. At the foundation of this change is the CAR’s young members, the residents and fellows. Residents comprise one-quarter of the CAR membership; this demographic is rich with energy, drive and a rewarding long career ahead of them.
The CAR Resident and Fellow Section (RFS) is the joint collaborative effort of resident representatives and volunteers from all 16 residency programs across Canada, with a senior and junior resident section liaison at each site. The RFS is for trainees, by trainees initiative with a focus on creating services and products that are relevant and useful to radiology residents in Canada.
At its core, the Resident and Fellow Section seeks to engage its nationwide network of professionally committed radiology members-in-training with development and the distribution of resident-specific information and resources related to leadership, advocacy, quality and safety, economics, education and career development. The RFS has developed a number of resources for both junior and senior residents across the country.
What We Do
The RFS continue to develop many new and exciting projects. Most recently, work by the RFS led to the development of a medical student network, which will help to provide opportunities for medical students from across the country to collaborate and continue to benefit from joint projects.
The CAR Resident and Fellow Section welcomes feedback and are always looking for ideas for improvement or opportunities for collaboration – contact us.
Membership
What benefits does your membership provide?
A National Voice advocating for radiologists in Canada
Digital subscription to the CAR Journal, Canada's #1 journal for radiologists
Access to radiology resources such as clinical practice guidelines
RAD Academy - Access to CAR’s e-institute for learning
Become a volunteer. Join a Working Group.
Registration discount for the CAR's Annual Scientific Meeting
A section specifically for Trainees including: Resident and Fellow Section (RFS) and Medical Student Network (MSN)
Reduced annual subscription to STATdx, an online diagnostic decision support tool
December 1, 2024 - CAR Member Exclusive Canadian Reception at Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Annual Meeting.
CAR member portal today!
Members enjoy benefits from :
Log in to the CAR member portal to find out more.
The CAR has teamed up with Goodlife Fitness to provide members with a great discount on gym memberships. Enjoy a waived enrollment fee and 20% savings! Log in to the CAR member portal to find out more.
As a CAR Member, switch to Canada’s best national network and get preferred pricing for you and your family (on up to 5 lines) with the Bell Exclusive Partner Program. Amazing network. Amazing offer. Log in to the CAR member portal to find out more.
- 50% discount on ACR membership
- Access to MD Financial Management's services.
- BMS Insurance, coverage for business, employment and cyber insurance
- TD Insurance Private Client Advice is a bespoke insurance service available to eligible Canadian Association of Radiologists members that is tailored to meet your expectations based on your unique insurance needs.
As the only national specialty society for radiologists, the CAR is in a prime position to speak with stakeholders about issues that are important to our members and that affect medical imaging in Canada while at the same time ensuring improved access to quality care.
Amplifying Academic Radiology at CAR 2024
Radiology research and academia are critical areas of the field. The Canadian bodies most directly involved with academic radiology, the Canadian Heads of Academic Radiology (CHAR) and the Canadian Association of Radiology Journal (CARJ), came together at CAR 2024 to discuss major priorities and ongoing projects.
The Canadian Heads of Academic Radiology (CHAR) Meet and Welcome New Members
The CHAR had a chance to catch up during CAR 2024. The CAR President Dr. Ania Kielar joined the meeting to express her appreciation for the CHAR and the important role they play in training the next generation of radiologists.
The CHAR Chair Dr. Narinder Paul thanked everyone for attending and welcomed three new chairs: Dr. Michael Patlas from the University of Toronto, Dr. Stephen Ying from the University of Manitoba, and Dr. Jeffery Fleming from Memorial University of Newfoundland (who unfortunately was unable to attend). The meeting was a great opportunity to exchange ideas, review projects, and strategize on the priority areas for the future of academic radiology.
The CHAR members are invigorated and enthusiastic to move forward on several new education initiatives and discussion papers. Stay tuned to learn more about these exciting projects!
The CAR Journal (CARJ) Editorial Board Meeting and Reception
The CARJ Editorial Board meeting was held during the CAR’s Annual Scientific Meeting. Editor-in-Chief – Dr. Michael Patlas – presented an excellent overview of the CARJ’s status as a premiere publication for current and cutting-edge radiology papers. Under his leadership, the journal has never been more prolific and successful.
Together with the support from the Editorial Board, Standing Committee, and International Advisory Board, the CARJ continues to experience spectacular growth in the number of submissions, publications, and downloads. The entire team was able to celebrate both Dr. Patlas’ and the journal’s accomplishments at the inaugural CARJ Reception.
Thank you to everyone who attended these events; your commitment and dedication have contributed immensely to the resounding success of the journal.
Acknowledging Outstanding Work from the Affiliate Societies
It is the CAR’s pleasure to announce the award winners for the Affiliate Societies that were presented during the CAR 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting. These awards were presented to recognize the exceptional contributions the recipients have made to their respective Affiliate Society and subspecialty field in radiology.
The CSTR Medal of Excellence Award was presented to Dr. Daria Manos in recognition of her distinguished and extraordinary service to the Canadian Society of Thoracic Radiology (CSTR) and the discipline of thoracic radiology. Her leadership as co-founder and current Past-President of the CSTR has been marked by numerous achievements, including chairing the CSTR/CAR lung screening CT accreditation group and being a crucial member of the education working group tasked with developing an accredited program for lung screening for radiologists (QUEST) across Canada. Her instrumental role in publishing guidelines, building high-quality online content on RAD Academy, hosting impactful events like the Masterclass on ILD, and leading programming for the CAR Annual Scientific Meeting have significantly contributed to solidifying the society’s standing.
The CETARS Medal of Excellence Award was presented to Dr. Michael Patlas in recognition of his outstanding contributions, leadership, research, and dedication to the field of emergency, trauma, and acute radiology. As the current President and co-founder of the Canadian Emergency, Trauma and Acute Care Radiology Society (CETARS), his leadership has been pivotal in advancing emergency radiology globally. His extensive service to CAR, impactful role as the Editor-in-Chief of the CAR Journal (CARJ), author of over 200 peer-reviewed papers, presenter of over 250 invited lectures and abstracts, and recognition from international societies highlight some of his incredible achievements focused on emergency imaging.
We congratulate Drs. Manos and Patlas on receiving these prestigious awards. Their contributions and dedication to their respective subspecialty fields of radiology and service to their Affiliate Societies have been exceptional and they are both truly deserving of this recognition.
Join the CAR Affiliate Societies today through the member portal or by emailing [email protected]. Membership is complimentary for current CAR members!
Consultant Radiologist – Northland New Zealand
Consultant Radiologist – Northland New Zealand
Whangarei Hospital, Northland New Zealand
We are looking for a Consultant Radiologist to join the progressive and cohesive radiology team at Whangārei Hospital, Te Whatu Ora – Te Tai Tokerau. We have multiple opportunities available and would be open to discussing how this might fit your lifestyle.
Te Whatu Ora – Te Tai Tokerau is committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and holds stewardship for equitable health outcomes for Māori as Tāngata Whenua as the highest priority.
Te Whatu Ora – Te Tai Tokerau (formerly Northland District Health Board) provides public health services across the Northland region, from north of Wellsford to Cape Reinga serving a growing population of 190,000. Whangārei Hospital is the largest hospital in Northland providing secondary care services, supported by three rural hospitals in Kaitaia; Kawakawa, and Dargaville.
Our department provides a range of diagnostic imaging services to the Northland region, undertaking over 100,000 procedures annually. A wide range of services and modalities are performed including X-Ray; CT, MRI, ultrasound, mammography, fluoroscopy and core interventional procedures. We have modern imaging equipment with two CT scanners (256 slice and 16 Slice) and a 1.5T MRI.
Here is your chance to join our multi-skilled, tight-knit team and relocate to one of the most beautiful areas of New Zealand. We are a supportive department that encourages development of special interests where possible, as well as on-going education. Multi-disciplinary meetings are held weekly with involvement from all specialities allowing for a close collegial working environment.
To be considered you must have or be eligible for vocational (or locum tenens – special purpose) registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand in a Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology scope of practice. A strong sub-speciality interest or a sub-speciality fellowship would be an advantage.
For more information about the MCNZ registration process please visit – www.mcnz.org.nz
We offer a competitive relocation package to support you and your family to make the move to Whangārei. If you are currently overseas/ not yet registered, we can assist you with the application process to obtain MCNZ registration. Te Whatu Ora – Te Tai Tokerau is also an Approved Accredited Employer by the New Zealand Immigration Service.
Interactive and Engaging Education: Register Today for the CAR 2024 Emergency Radiology Workshop
A highlight of the CAR’s Annual Scientific Meeting is the educational workshop that provides an in-depth and hands-on approach to learning about specific topics in radiology. This year, CAR 2024 kicks off with a day-long workshop on emergency radiology called Mastering ER Radiology: Accurate Diagnoses and Timely Decision-Making. Experts from across the country will come together to put theory into practice in several areas of emergency radiology including abdominal, musculoskeletal, neuroradiology, and more.
Taking place on Thursday, April 11 from 8am-4pm ET, this workshop is designed for practicing radiologists and simulates real-case reporting. It is a fully accredited event and is eligible for a maximum of 19.5 Section 3 SIM MOC credits.
Dr. Viviane Khoury is President of the newest Affiliate Society, the Canadian Society of Skeletal Radiology (CSSR), and will present on musculoskeletal upper and lower extremity trauma through a variety of case-based examples and discussion points. She explains why emergency radiology is an important topic to cover at CAR 2024.
“Radiology plays a vital role in patient care in an emergency setting. A full-day workshop that is specifically focused on emergency radiology has the advantage of exploring in detail the unique aspects and challenges of this field.”
"Emergency radiology is a microcosm of the rapidly evolving changes in radiology," explained Canadian Society of Abdominal Radiology (CSAR) President Dr. Tanya Chawla, whose presentation will focus on abdominal imaging. "Not only is there an expectation for rapid turnaround times, but emergency radiology is where we encounter the trickiest cases. This is an area where subspecialty experts from the CAR's Affiliate Societies could share their experiences (and mistakes) with colleagues and enable them to see a collective of pathology in unparalleled depth. There will be learning for everyone irrespective of their level of training of experience."
The day consists of several high-impact didactic reviews in various subspecialties and multiple interpretation sessions where participants can review complete image files with the guidance and assistance of the expert faculty on hand. There will be an emphasis on common pathologies including important pitfalls and missed diagnoses.
The instructors, all of whom are fellowship-trained at academic centres, will offer their insights on how to interpret difficult imaging patterns and will provide tools for discerning normal and abnormal images. Practicing radiologists of all experience levels in reading images will be equipped with strategies for image acquisition, interpretation, and recognition of things commonly “missed”.
“This workshop will help attendees become expert diagnosticians in the timely and accurate interpretation of emergency room diagnostic images,” said Dr. Khoury. “Our aim as instructors is to boost attendees’ confidence in their current knowledge base and expand the broad skill set that this subspecialty requires.”
"Dr. Angus Hartery and I are gearing up for a fast-paced run through of a spectrum of non-traumatic abdominal and pelvic emergencies," explained Dr. Chawla. "We hope to show the bread-and-butter cases, but also reinforce learning of the rarer 'do-not-miss' pathologies. By using a case-based approach, there will be a very practical approach to learning."
Since it is an interactive workshop, Dr. Chawla advises participants to read the assigned cases ahead of time to get the full experience.
"Cases will be provided to participants in advance of the class, along with relevant reading if required, so there is an opportunity to get through a fairly large volume of cases during the day. Bring a positive attitude, a clear mind and a sense of humour!"
Key Learning Objectives
Recognize characteristic appearance of various causes of acute head to toe emergencies on plain radiography, CT, and US
Gain comprehensive knowledge in identifying and interpreting radiographic images of emergency cases, including a diverse range of head-to-toe emergencies, through hands-on simulations and case-based learning.
Develop a scientific approach to CT image acquisition of the emergency patient (in the trauma setting)
Acquire key strategies in CT image acquisition for emergency patients, particularly in trauma settings. Learn the intricacies of optimizing image quality while efficiently obtaining critical diagnostic information.
Facilitate an approach to the interpretation of the polytrauma patient in a trauma setting
Enhance your skills in interpreting radiographic findings in polytrauma patients within a trauma setting. Engage in interactive case studies to refine your approach and decision-making skills in managing complex emergencies.
Review common and uncommon fractures of the upper extremities, lower extremities, and pelvis with an emphasis on areas where findings are most often missed
Delve into the world of both common and uncommon fractures and gain insight on areas prone to oversight. Engage in practical exercises to reinforce your ability to detect fractures in the upper extremities, lower extremities, and pelvis.
Don't miss this chance to hone your emergency radiology skills! Seize the opportunity to learn from experts, engage in hands-on simulations, and connect with peers in a dynamic learning environment.
Space is limited and filling up fast, so be sure to register today and save your seat!
Get to Know the CAR 2024 Plenary Session Speakers
A feature attraction of the CAR’s Annual Scientific Meeting is the exciting lineup of plenary sessions speakers. With the renowned radiology leaders speaking on a breadth of topics, CAR 2024 will be an event not to miss.
Get to know the five plenary session speakers featured at CAR 2024.
Dr. Manickam “Nicks” Kumaravel
Dr. Kumaravel joins CAR 2024 from Houston, Texas and the University of Texas Health Science Centre. He is an Assistant Vice-President at UT Health, as well as Professor of Radiology and Orthopedics, and Vice-Chair of Diagnostic Radiology.
Dr. Kumaravel holds board certifications from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and Glasgow as well as the American Board of Radiology. He is specialty board certified in radiology in the United Kingdom and the European Union. He is the Team Radiologist for the NFL’s Houston Texans.
Musculoskeletal Infection
Friday, April 12 – 9am ET
This lecture offers an in-depth examination of the essentials of musculoskeletal (MSK) infections, focusing on the different types of MSK infections in soft tissues, bones, and joints. Different types of imaging techniques will be used to identify and assess MSK infections including MRI, CT, and more. This practical presentation will focus on real-world applications and help participants diagnose, treat, and manage MSK infections effectively in their day-to-day clinical practice.
Dr. Bachir Taouli
Representing the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York is Dr. Bachir Taouli. He is a Professor of Radiology, Director of Body MRI and Cancer Imaging, Co-Chief of the Abdominal Imaging Section, and Vice-Chair for Translational Research in the Department of Radiology.
Dr. Taouli is a clinician scientist with expertise in the application of advanced MRI methods in chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and other abdominal and pelvic malignancies. Dr. Taouli has been named Distinguished Investigator by the Academy of Radiology Research and is a Fellow of the SAR, ISMRM, ICIS, and the SABI.
Non-Invasive Detection of Liver Fibrosis with Quantitative Imaging Methods
Friday, April 12 – 1:30pm ET
Dr. Taouli will present an overview of current non-invasive methods for detecting liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients with chronic liver diseases, including ultrasound and MR elastography. He will discuss their respective performances, pitfalls, and limitations.
Dr. Peter Kranz
Dr. Peter Kranz is based out of Duke University Medical Centre in Durham, North Carolina, where he is Associate Professor of Radiology and the Division Chief of Neuroradiology. His extensive clinical and research experience focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension (SIH).
Dr. Kranz is widely considered a national and international expert in the field of spinal CSF leaks. He has authored or co-authored nearly 100 peer-reviewed medical manuscripts on SIH and image-guided spine procedures.
Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: What the Radiologist Needs to Know
Saturday, April 13 – 9am ET
In this presentation, Dr. Kranz reviews the causes of SIH, imaging techniques used in diagnosis, and how those imaging tests guide therapy. SIH results from the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from the spine which frequently causes debilitating symptoms. Treatment requires specialized techniques to characterize and localize the source of CSF leaks, making radiologists an indispensable part of managing this condition. Recognition of this disease has dramatically expanded over the last decade, and SIH is not considered to be as rare of a condition as it once was. As such, all radiologists should expect to encounter SIH in their practice.
Dr. Kate Hanneman
Dr. Kate Hanneman is an Associate Professor and Vice-Chair of Research at the University of Toronto Department of Medical Imaging and is a Clinician Scientist at the Toronto General Hospital Research Institute. She co-chair’s the CAR’s Sustainability Working Group and is Deputy Lead for Sustainability at the Joint Department of Medical Imaging and University Medical Imaging Toronto.
Additionally, Dr. Hanneman is an Associate Editor with the Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance as well as the CAR Journal. Finally, she leads an active research program focused on sustainability and improving health outcomes for patients using cardiac imaging.
Environmental Sustainability in Radiology
Saturday, April 13 – 1:30pm ET
Dr. Hanneman will explore the intersection of sustainability, climate change, and radiology. The lecture focuses on the significance of sustainability in our current practices and the steps we can take to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr. John Lichtenberger
Working out of George Washington University in Washington, DC, is Dr. John Lichtenberger, where he is Chief of Cardiothoracic Imaging, Vice-Chair for Education, and Professor of Radiology. He is the Associate Section Chief of Cardiothoracic Imaging at the American Institute for Radiology Pathology (AIRP).
Dr. Lichtenberger also serves his country’s military as a United States Air Force (USAF) Lieutenant Colonel and is Associate Professor of Radiology at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences (USU).
Best of the AIRP: Cardiothoracic Rad-Path
Sunday, April 14 – 9am ET
Lichtenberger will present recent cases that highlight the role of radiologic-pathologic correlation, focusing on how pathologic understanding of thoracic disease can inform manifestations in imaging. The lecture will outline common mistakes in diagnosing thoracic tumors and how pathologic understanding can help avoid them.
Take a look at the full CAR 2024 program and register today!
Opportunities and Challenges for Canadians Training in American Diagnostic Radiology Residency Programs
By Dr. Kaitlin M. Zaki-Metias - Radiology Resident in the US
As a Canadian citizen, having a foot on both sides of the border throughout radiology residency can be daunting. While opportunities in the United States are abundant, there are visa limitations that may restrict where Canadians are able to pursue fellowship training. For those of us aiming for a path back home to practice in Canada, the waters can be difficult to navigate.
Background & Importance
Many Canadians who attend medical school abroad apply to and often complete residency and/or fellowship training in the United States, including in radiology. Matching to a Canadian residency program as an international medical graduate (IMG) is extremely competitive, particularly in diagnostic radiology where there are only five positions reserved for IMGs. Per the J1 Visa Statement of Need Program at Health Canada, there are currently 61 Canadian citizens and permanent residents actively enrolled in radiology training programs throughout the United States for the 2023-2024 academic year.
All postgraduate training programs pose challenges to residents, however, Canadian citizens training abroad face a unique set of circumstances with often unclear solutions. Every year, countless Canadians pursue medical school training abroad given the increasing competitiveness of Canadian medical schools; several of these Canadians studying abroad may choose to pursue residency training in the United States given the abundance of programs and the perception of a more level playing field. For those wishing to return to Canada for fellowship and/or practice, there are several additional hurdles that must be tackled.
Examinations
Canadians wishing to return to Canada for practice must obtain specialty board certification in Diagnostic Radiology through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). Unlike the American Board of Radiology (ABR) CORE Examination, the Canadian counterpart remains a two-step process, with both written and oral board components. This examination is typically undertaken in the spring of PGY-5, although the registration process begins nearly 18 months prior.
There are additional province-dependent criteria necessary to obtain a provincial medical license. This may include completing the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) examinations and obtaining the Licentiate of the MCC designation, although this varies by province. In a minority of provinces, including British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia, the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE) may be accepted in lieu of the MCC examinations. Barriers to provincial licensure for US-trained physicians are currently evolving and criteria should be verified with the respective provincial authority.
Fellowship Training & Job Market
It is not uncommon for residents of Canadian residency programs to pursue fellowship training in the US. Likewise, many Canadian residents in the US continue their training in an American fellowship program. However, a key obstacle to consider is visa sponsorship. Similar to residency positions, not all fellowship programs and institutions in the US sponsor J1 visas for fellowship. Additionally, for those intending to return to Canada to practice, it may be desirable to obtain fellowship training in Canada to network and acclimatize to the differences in healthcare systems prior to pursuing a staff position. Despite being a geographically large country, Canada has a small and tight-knit radiology community and those hoping to practice in Canada may find it beneficial to get a foot in the door prior to applying to jobs. However, US fellowship programs are overall well-respected in Canada and completing fellowship training in the US will not necessarily preclude one from working as a radiologist in Canada in the future. In my experience, I opted to apply to both Canadian and American fellowship programs and ultimately accepted a position in Canada as I felt it would better prepare me for the nuances of practice in the Canadian healthcare system.
Networking & Conferences
There are numerous opportunities for networking within the Canadian radiology community, both in-person and virtually. The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) holds its Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) every spring and offers a dedicated Trainee Day at the beginning of the conference. This day boasts focused educational content as well as networking opportunities for residents and fellows at all levels of training. Furthermore, multiple networking events are hosted at the CAR ASM, organized by the CAR itself and by affiliated and non-affiliated organizations. Trainees from across Canada as well as those training outside of Canada are welcome to register and are afforded the same perks of registration.
Canada also boasts a presence at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Annual Scientific Assembly in Chicago. The CAR and other affiliated organizations such as Canadian Radiology Women (CRW) host receptions for their members and guests. From my own experience, both the CAR and CRW are immensely welcoming, and I have both made many strong professional relationships, and strengthened pre-existing friendships at these in-person events.
Getting Involved
There are multiple avenues available to Canadian residents who train abroad to become involved in the Canadian radiology community. The CAR provides membership to residents and fellows training in institutions outside of Canada for a nominal fee of $35 CAD per year. This grants access to the numerous volunteering, advocacy, and educational opportunities offered by the CAR. The CAR has multiple volunteering opportunities through its working groups on a variety of topics ranging from guideline development and accreditation to equity, diversity, and inclusion and planetary health. The CAR is also instrumental in radiology advocacy in Canada, both at the federal and provincial levels, and offers several paths to get involved.
The CAR Resident & Fellow Section (RFS) is an excellent resource for trainees both in Canada and abroad. Effective for the 2023-2024 academic year, the CAR RFS Executive Committee has instituted a new position of International Resident Representative. This position is open to all CAR members at non-Canadian residency training programs and will be held for a one-year term. The International Resident Representative position will provide yet another avenue for Canadians training abroad to collaborate with their peers and contribute to the Canadian radiology community. I have been fortunate to serve as the International Representative for the 2023-2024 academic year, which has further strengthened my ties with the radiology community in Canada. I highly recommend international trainees consider applying for this position to hone their leadership skills and to increase their networking opportunities.
There are several subspecialty affiliate societies offered through the CAR for which membership is included in CAR membership, including the Canadian Society of Abdominal Radiology (CSAR), the Canadian Society of Thoracic Radiology (CSTR), Canadian Society of Pediatric Radiology (CSPR), Canadian Emergency, Trauma and Acute Care Radiology Society (CETARS), and the new Canadian Society of Skeletal Radiology (CSSR). Each of these groups offers additional opportunities for engagement and have a presence at the ASM.
There are additional associations not directly affiliated with the CAR such as the Canadian Association for Interventional Radiology (CAIR) and the Canadian Society of Breast Imaging (CSBI), although there are strong bidirectional ties. CAIR membership is affordable for trainees at $50 CAD per year, while CSBI membership is free. The CAIR and CSBI both host an annual conference as well as offering additional opportunities for advocacy and engagement.
The CRW is a more informal community of Canadian women in radiology with a strong social media presence. The CRW offers many free and affordable webinars throughout the year, including an annual workshop on leadership for women in radiology, co-hosted by Dalhousie University, the Nova Scotia Association of Radiologists, and the Canadian Radiological Foundation. The CRW and its members also arrange in-person meetings, both formally and informally, for networking, mentorship, and community.
From my own experience through involvement with the CSBI and the CRW, both communities are extremely welcoming and supportive of the next generation of radiologists in Canada. I have formed transformative mentorship relationships through these two organizations, which have made me look forward even more to a lifetime of teamwork and camaraderie with a group of exemplary Canadian radiologists.
There are also several provincial radiological societies such as those in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Québec, and Nova Scotia that provide membership to trainees. These societies offer various educational events and are a great resource when looking for jobs and making local connections.
Concluding Thoughts
Finding your place in the closely connected community of Canadian radiologists can initially seem daunting as an outsider; however, I have experienced nothing but genuine kindness, encouragement, and support on my “slow-but-steady” journey back home to Canada. I encourage any Canadian training in the US or abroad to get involved and start networking early, even if you are not yet sure of your future plans for fellowship or practice. In my opinion, the combination of experiences gained from my US residency training and associated activities and my involvement in the Canadian radiology community have been extremely fruitful and are all contributing to the development of a well-rounded perspective in shaping my future as a radiologist.
Resources:
- Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - https://www.royalcollege.ca/rcsite/home-e
- Medical Council of Canada - https://www.mcc.ca
- Canadian Association of Radiologists – https://car.ca
- Canadian Association of Interventional Radiology – https://www.cairweb.ca
- Canadian Society of Breast Imaging – https://www.csbi.ca
- Canadian Radiology Women - https://twitter.com/canadaradwomen?lang=en
About Dr. Kaitlin M. Zaki-Metias
- Chief Resident, Diagnostic Radiology, PGY-5, Trinity Health Oakland/Wayne State University
- International Resident Representative, Canadian Association of Radiologists Resident & Fellow Section
- Trainee Representative, Canadian Society of Breast Imaging
- Resident Representative, Canadian Society of Abdominal Radiology
- International Resident Representative, Canadian Radiology Women