Factors influencing the choice of diagnostic radiology as a specialty among medical students in Palestine: A cross-sectional study

Background Understanding factors influencing specialty choice is essential for workforce planning and curriculum development. Recruitment into radiology remains challenging in several regions, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. This study aimed to identify factors associated with Palestinian medical students’ consideration of diagnostic radiology as a future specialty, with particular emphasis on educational exposure, perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI), and cognitive influences. Methods A multi-institutional cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate factors influencing the choice of diagnostic radiology as a future specialty among Palestinian medical students between November 2025 and February 2026. Data were collected using a previously validated questionnaire adapted from Almuhanna et al. Descriptive statistics were performed, followed by bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors of considering radiology as a future specialty. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. Results A total of 427 students participated (56.7% female; mean age 21.75 ± 2.1 years). Among 300 valid responses regarding radiology intention, 102 students (34.0%) reported considering radiology as a future specialty. In multivariable analysis, lack of exposure to radiology research (OR = 0.14, 95% CI 0.06–0.34, p < 0.001) and lack of preclinical radiology teaching (OR = 0.26, 95% CI 0.12–0.54, p < 0.001) were independently associated with lower likelihood of considering radiology. Enjoyment of diagnostic problem-solving tasks (OR = 3.35, 95% CI 1.39–8.09, p = 0.007) and exposure to tele-radiology (OR = 3.96, 95% CI 1.72–9.12, p = 0.001) were independently associated with higher likelihood. Lifestyle, impact on patient care, and work environment were the most frequently reported motivating factors. Conclusions Palestinian medical students’ interest in radiology is strongly associated with modifiable educational exposures, cognitive engagement in diagnostic reasoning, and perceptions of evolving technological practice. Structured undergraduate radiology exposure, research opportunities, and targeted mentorship may enhance recruitment into radiology in resource-limited settings. Clinical trial registration Not applicable.