Virtual Reality vs Traditional Lecture-Based Methods in Radiation Safety Continuing Medical Education.

This study compares the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR)–based continuing medical education (CME) with traditional lecture-based methods in improving radiation safety knowledge and reducing occupational radiation exposure among health care professionals, including cardiologists, scrub nurses, and orthopedic surgeons. Using a crossover design with 36 experienced participants, the research found that VR training (RadSafe VR; Virtual Medical Coaching) led to significantly greater knowledge retention (30% improvement at 3 months), higher learner satisfaction, and a 25% reduction in eye dose radiation exposure over 40 weeks compared to traditional methods. Participants reported that VR’s immersive, interactive simulations enhanced engagement, confidence, and practical application of safety protocols, resulting in sustained behavioral changes that improved radiation safety practices. While the study highlights VR’s potential as a scalable, cost-effective tool for radiation safety education, it notes limitations such as the absence of a randomized control group and focus on eye dose only, recommending further research on long-term outcomes and broader dosimetry.