Corewell Health – Grand Rapids/Michigan State University Program

The Corewell Health – Grand Rapids/Michigan State University Diagnostic Radiology Residency offers a unique and comprehensive training experience for aspiring radiologists. The program is designed with a focus on educational excellence and practical experience, providing residents with exposure to a high volume of cases, including rare diseases and post-transplant studies. Accredited by the ACGME, it has also achieved the Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR) designation, indicating its commitment to advanced training in interventional techniques.

This four-year residency program, which includes an integrated Transitional Year, accepts three residents each year. The structure promotes a diverse and enriching learning environment, allowing residents to benefit from the clinical exposure provided by a strong partnership with the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.

Program Structure and Training Locations

Residents undergo training at Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals and Trinity Health Saint Mary’s. The training facilities include several notable hospitals:

• Butterworth Hospital: A 679-bed facility recognized as a Level I Trauma Center, which facilitates emergency radiology exposure. This hospital is also home to the West Michigan Regional Burn Center.
• Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital: The only freestanding children’s hospital in West Michigan and a Level 1 pediatric trauma center.
• Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion: This cancer center has received the Breast Imaging Center of Excellence Award and is integral to the residents' PET rotations.
• Trinity Health Saint Mary’s: A 300-bed nonprofit teaching hospital providing rich clinical experiences in various radiology subspecialties.

The program benefits from significant case volumes across these various hospitals, with more than 1 million studies performed annually, ensuring abundant hands-on learning opportunities.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum emphasizes a structured approach to learning through diverse conferences and dedicated didactic sessions. Residents benefit from approximately eight hours of conference time weekly, which includes:

• Didactic subspecialty lectures covering all diagnostic and interventional radiology aspects.
• Interactive case conferences, including a dedicated physics curriculum led by department physicists.
• A resident-run book club aimed at introducing fundamental concepts to first-year residents.

Additionally, residents are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary education, enhancing their training and promoting collaboration across specialties.

Research Opportunities

With a strong affiliation with Michigan State University, the program supports numerous research initiatives. Residents have access to faculty-led studies and collaborative case reports, bolstered by a dedicated scholarly activity support team. Residents are encouraged to present their research at leading national meetings, and funding is provided for those presenting their work.

Non-Interpretive Tracks

At the end of the first year, residents choose from various non-interpretative tracks that allow them to customize their educational experience. Options available include research, artificial intelligence/informatics, quality improvement, and business/entrepreneurship, among others. Each track provides mentorship opportunities and culminates in a capstone project to be presented in the final year.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Application to the residency program is through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Key application components include:

• Three letters of recommendation, ideally one from a radiologist.
• A personal statement, medical school transcript, and Dean’s letter.
• USMLE Step 1 score (mandatory) and Step 2 CK score (preferred).

The program is competitive, with a strong preference for students demonstrating a solid academic record and clinical experiences. As an inclusive program, it is open to both MD and DO applicants.

Visa Support

The program supports international applicants by offering visa sponsorship. This includes potential sponsorship for the J-1 visa, which is commonly sought after by foreign medical graduates.

Salary and Benefits

Residents at Corewell Health in West Michigan receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive salaries, educational funding for courses and conferences, as well as additional resources to enhance residency training.

Community and Lifestyle

Living in Grand Rapids offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor recreational opportunities, with easy access to lakes, trails, and parks. The program promotes a healthy work-life balance, encouraging residents to immerse themselves in community activities, wellness programs, and diverse cultural experiences.