Opinions on Remote and in-Person Breast Imaging Work: Survey Results from the Society of Breast Imaging

Abstract

Abstract Objective The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic accelerated trends in remote radiology work. We evaluated the opinions of Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) members regarding remote and in-person breast imaging work. Methods An institutional review board–exempt anonymous survey was distributed to SBI members. Survey questions included demographics and opinions on remote and in-person work. Results The response rate was 12% (307/2561). Overall, 79% of respondents preferred hybrid work, 16% preferred in-person work, and 5% preferred fully remote work. Only 34% of respondents had remote work in current practice. Screening mammograms (97%) and breast MRI (92%) were deemed most suitable for remote work. Most respondents believed barriers for remote work were inability to perform US (80%) and high monitor price (78%). Seventy-six percent of respondents believed remote work improves work-life balance and reduces burnout. Work model preferences were significantly associated with gender (P = .048) and perceived work-related impacts (P <.001). Women were more likely to prefer hybrid work than men (82% vs 73%). Compared to those who preferred in-person work, respondents who preferred hybrid work were more likely to believe remote work improves efficiency (89% vs 3%) and reduces burnout (88% vs 6%) while not negatively affecting career growth (88% vs 3%) or communication (87% vs 4%). Conclusion Hybrid work is the preferred model among SBI survey respondents. However, a minority have the option for remote work in current practice. Perceived benefits of remote work are efficiency and reduced burnout among breast imaging radiologists while not negatively affecting career growth or communication.