Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Program

The Musculoskeletal Radiology Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai is an advanced clinical training program aimed at board-eligible physicians looking to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. This fellowship is notable for being the only musculoskeletal radiology program in California accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The fellowship fosters a comprehensive learning environment led by distinguished faculty and clinicians, emphasizing cutting-edge techniques and practices in musculoskeletal imaging.

Training and Curriculum
The fellow's training encompasses all vital aspects of musculoskeletal radiology, providing experience in the application and interpretation of various imaging modalities. The curriculum covers key areas such as anatomy, physiology, orthopedic surgery, pathology, and rheumatology. Fellow training includes exposure to diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound, CT, MRI, arthrography, and various image-guided interventional procedures, such as thermal and cryoablations, joint aspirations, and steroid injections. The fellowship is structured to ensure that fellows engage in clinical and didactic experiences that refine their expertise in musculoskeletal radiology, significantly benefiting from Cedars-Sinai's large patient population and advanced imaging resources 1.

Application Information
The fellowship is available to candidates currently enrolled in or who have completed a diagnostic radiology residency accredited by ACGME. Typically, candidates apply during their third residency year and can submit applications year-round, which include a CV, personal statement, letters of recommendation, medical school diploma, and USMLE transcripts. Interviews are conducted from August through September, or until the fellowship position is filled. The program participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) for uniformity in the selection process 2.

Work Hours and Conditions
Fellows are expected to work approximately 40 hours per week, with all training conducted within the medical center, negating the need for outside rotations. The current stipend for a Post Graduate Year 6 (PGY-6) fellow is $68,039.71, and fellows receive comprehensive medical and dental benefits starting from the program's outset. Moreover, moonlighting opportunities are available with proper approval 3.

Facilities and Resources
The program is housed within the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, which offers 125,000 square feet of space designated for imaging and clinical services. This state-of-the-art facility supports a multitude of imaging techniques essential for musculoskeletal assessments. With around 12,000 musculoskeletal examinations performed annually, fellows benefit from extensive hands-on experience and access to numerous resources, ensuring a well-rounded fellowship experience 4.

Faculty and Mentorship
The fellowship boasts a highly acclaimed faculty comprising prominent clinicians and researchers in the field of musculoskeletal radiology. The mentorship provided is integral to the fellowship structure, allowing fellows to work closely with experienced professionals in various specialties, further enriching their practical knowledge and skills 5.

Graduates Outcomes
Graduates of the Musculoskeletal Radiology Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai have secured notable positions in various esteemed institutions across the United States. This reflects the program's strong emphasis on quality training and its role in enhancing fellowship graduates' careers, ensuring they meet the professional demands in the radiology community 6.

Diversity and Inclusion
Cedars-Sinai is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all its trainees. This mission is evident in the fellowship’s emphasis on mentorship and support for a diverse cohort of fellows, enhancing the overall learning experience and fostering professional growth 7.

Visa Sponsorship
The program supports various visa types for international medical graduates, including H-1B and J-1 visas, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants from diverse backgrounds 8.

Competitiveness
The Musculoskeletal Radiology Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai is considered highly competitive. Candidates with strong academic backgrounds and extensive clinical experience are generally favored. The program, however, is inclusive and welcomes applications from DO candidates and international medical graduates, although competitive standards remain high 9.