Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the suspension of clinical training for undergraduate radiography students in Singapore. Coordinated preparation plans and strategies between the university and hospitals were needed to safely resume clinical placements within national and hospitals’ risk control measures against COVID-19 transmission. Methods Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and the Radiology Department of Singapore General Hospital (SGH) had collaborated to meet requirements for safe resumption of clinical placements. SIT prepared students by emphasising compliance to all risk measures, addressing concerns of risk transmission, meeting learning objectives, and reassessing infection control competencies. In tandem, SGH prepared an orientation programme and used technology for open communication among faculty, clinical educators and students which included monitoring of well-being and rapid dissemination of updates. Of note, SGH reorganised operating procedures and physical spaces to meet national standards of safe physical distancing, restricted movement between treatment areas and teams, and rosters to remain committed to the supervision and education of students. Results Clinical placements resumed 3 months following suspension. Clinical educators faced the challenge of the need for balance between increasing clinical load and student supervision. A solution was frequent engagement and support by faculty, with educators and students via video conferencing platforms. Students’ well-being was frequently checked. There was less variation in cases which simulation training made up for some of the learning objectives. Conclusion Adaptation and commitment to continue active and quality clinical education while ensuring students' safety were vital during a pandemic. Clinical training within stringent precautionary measures may shape the era of the new norm.

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In coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), medical imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis, management and disease progression surveillance. Chest radiography and computed tomography are commonly used imaging techniques globally during this pandemic. As the pandemic continues to unfold, many healthcare systems worldwide struggle to balance the heavy strain due to overwhelming demand for healthcare resources. Changes are required across the entire healthcare system and medical imaging departments are no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on medical imaging practices. It is now time to pay further attention to the profound challenges of COVID-19 on medical imaging services and develop effective strategies to get ahead of the crisis. Additionally, preparation for operations and survival in the post-pandemic future are necessary considerations. This review aims to comprehensively examine the challenges and optimization of delivering medical imaging services in relation to the current COVID-19 global pandemic, including the role of medical imaging during these challenging times and potential future directions post-COVID-19.

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