Cleveland Clinic Foundation Program

The Interventional Radiology Residency Program at Cleveland Clinic offers trainees an opportunity to receive a comprehensive and specialized education in the field of interventional radiology. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and has been established since September 2017. Successful graduates of the program receive dual certification in Interventional Radiology and Diagnostic Radiology upon passing the American Board of Radiology (ABR) certifying exam, which assures a broad foundation in both domains of radiology. This extensive training regimen ensures that residents are well-equipped for the complexities and demands of modern radiology practice.

The program features a well-structured curriculum that spans five years. The first three years focus on diagnostic radiology, paralleling the training of diagnostic radiology residents, while the last two years immerse residents completely in interventional radiology and related services. Such a block scheduling approach allows residents to gain depth in diagnostic imaging before delving into interventional procedures, thus fostering a well-rounded expertise in both areas.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum includes varied rotations during the different years of training. From PGY-2 to PGY-4, residents will pay visits to multiple services, including:

• Interventional Radiology
• Body Imaging (CT/MR/GI)
• Emergency Department
• Musculoskeletal Radiology
• Neuroradiology (CT/MR)
• Emergency Imaging
• Pediatric Imaging

In PGY-5 and PGY-6, residents will focus more deeply on specialized areas such as Neuro Interventional Radiology, Pediatric Interventional Radiology, and Vascular Ultrasound. Additionally, residents will attend diagnostic radiology morning conferences throughout the entirety of their training which reinforces their learning and prepares them for board examinations.

This structure enables residents to progressively develop from foundational knowledge to advanced practical skills necessary for independent practice in interventional radiology.

Clinical Training Sites

Cleveland Clinic's Interventional Radiology residents are trained across multiple sites that include:

• Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
• Cleveland Clinic Florida
• Akron General Health Center
• MetroHealth Medical Center
• Akron Children's Hospital

This allows residents to experience a wide variety of clinical encounters and equips them with necessary exposure to different patient populations and practice settings, enriching their education.

Research Opportunities

Cleveland Clinic emphasizes research as an integral part of graduate medical education. All residents have access to ongoing research projects and are encouraged to actively participate in investigations in their area of interest. Dedicated research time is allocated for active projects, and residents are supported financially for presentations at scientific meetings, enhancing their academic profile.

There are numerous research mentors available, ensuring that residents can pursue their interests and develop effective research skills which are invaluable in both academic and clinical spheres.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Interventional Radiology Residency Program, candidates must meet several eligibility criteria:

• Hold a medical degree from an accredited institution (U.S. medical school, Canadian medical school, or ECFMG certification)
• Complete an ACGME-accredited preliminary year prior to entering interventional residency
• Submit USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores (COMLEX scores are not accepted)
• Provide three letters of recommendation, including one from a radiologist
• Provide a personal statement and CV

Importantly, Cleveland Clinic does not discriminate against applicants based on their training background, including ESIR or non-ESIR pathways, thus maintaining a broad and inclusive applicant pool.

Visa Sponsorship

The program sponsors both J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the application process for international medical graduates. There is no cut-off date for graduation from medical school, making it accessible for a range of candidates from varied backgrounds and timelines.

Competitiveness

The Cleveland Clinic’s Interventional Radiology Residency Program is recognized for its rigorous training and is regarded as highly competitive. Applicants are assessed through a holistic review process, factoring academic performance as well as unique experiences and contributions to the field of radiology.

Benefits and Resident Life

Residents at Cleveland Clinic benefit significantly from a comprehensive salary and benefits package that features health insurance, paid time off, and educational funding for resources necessary for training. Cleveland is known for its affordability as a city, allowing residents to explore a wealth of recreational, dining, and cultural opportunities while keeping living costs manageable.

The emphasis on resident wellness and camaraderie among trainees is crucial, with numerous networking and social events designed to foster collegial relationships and a supportive environment for learning.

Conclusion

Overall, the Interventional Radiology Residency Program at Cleveland Clinic is a pinnacle of medical education that merges academic excellence, extensive clinical exposure, and a commitment to research. With comprehensive training across multiple esteemed institutions and a supportive environment, it prepares residents thoroughly for a successful future in both interventional radiology and the broader field of diagnostic radiology.