Weissman AF, Bartel TB. Noninterpretive Skills in Radiology: Q&A Top Score Prep Guide for the Boards. Thieme; 2016; 110 pp; 25 ill; $39.99

Familiarity with many of the issues raised in this succinct, softcover book entitled Noninterpretive Skills in Radiology is germane not only for those tested by the ABR, but also for those involved in any of the administrative aspects of hospital and clinical practice. While the ABR does disseminate material deemed to be useful in preparation for their examinations, it provides less of a study guide than this publication, which all radiologists will find useful.

After a 28-page introduction to noninterpretive skills, the remaining 54 pages are set up in a question and answer manner in which multiple choice questions are asked and immediately following are short, well-written answers and appropriate references.

Many important items are covered in the material, including (but not limited to) quality improvement, metrics used in assessing value and productivity, safety, errors, RCA, contrast allergies and nephropathy, statistics, professionalism, and more. Among all of this material are embedded buzzwords, such as the “Hawthorne effect” or the “Swiss cheese model,” of which we have little understanding. Within each section are excellent graphics, cartoons, and medical images which help to solidify each discussion point. The 175 questions cover most material with which one would be expected to be familiar.

This straightforward book should be of interest to all those in radiology, but should be particularly valuable to those anticipating sitting for the ABR exam. It is a recommended purchase for all departments and could be a good addition to one’s personal library.