Teaching methods in anatomy courses in North American medical schools the role of radiology.

Objective: We sought to determine the current and anticipated future status of anatomy education in medical schools in North America, with particular emphasis on the role of radiologists and imaging in the curriculum.

Methods: A Web-based survey was sent to all schools identified using the AAMC Web site to find e-mail addresses for deans and course directors.

Results: Responses were obtained from approximately 50% of schools. Most courses are taught over a semester, and most are directed by anatomists. Only one is directed by a radiologist. Dissection is still the major teaching method, with radiologic anatomy averaging about 5% of total teaching time. Most directors anticipate a decrease in teaching time over the next 5 years and an increase in use of digital methods and teaching of radiologic anatomy.

Conclusions: The role of radiologists will probably increase in future teaching of anatomy.