Madigan Army Medical Center Program
Location:
Tacoma, WASpecialty:
Radiology-diagnosticACGME Code:
4205421239The Madigan Army Medical Center's Diagnostic Radiology residency program is a prestigious military training program located in Tacoma, Washington, designed to equip physicians with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of radiology. This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and has a total duration of four years. To be eligible for the program, candidates must have graduated from medical school and completed an internship in a primary care or surgical program.
The program typically accepts 4-5 residents per year, with a mix of preselect and Transitional Year/General Medical Officer applicants, fostering a diverse and inclusive educational atmosphere. The educational experience emphasizes both professionalism and technical skill, aiming to develop highly competent general diagnostic radiologists prepared to serve the unique needs of the military and the Department of Defense upon graduation 1.
Program Features
Mission, Vision, and Aims
The mission of the program is to ensure the provision of a superior educational experience in a collaborative and stimulating environment. The vision focuses on being recognized as a leading training facility within military contexts, producing compassionate and skilled diagnostic radiologists. The program's aims include recruiting and educating a diverse resident cohort, preparing graduates for military service or fellowship training, and instilling core values essential for a military career.
Curriculum and Didactics
The curriculum encompasses comprehensive clinical training across various subspecialties, including thoracic radiology, interventional radiology, and pediatric radiology, among others. Residents engage in one-hour case conferences and didactic sessions led by faculty, covering essential topics and facilitating the development of diagnostic skills. A three-year repeating core curriculum is complemented by elective rotations, research opportunities, and participation in national conferences, thereby fostering scholarly and professional growth among residents 1.
Research and Scholarly Development
All residents are required to conduct a research project or participate in other scholarly activities. Faculty members provide mentorship and guidance to help residents navigate the resources available through the department of clinical investigation. Additionally, residents are encouraged to engage in quality improvement projects, contributing to the advancement of healthcare practices within the military medical community 1.
Training Sites and Rotations
During the course of the residency, trainees will rotate through several notable institutions, including Seattle Children’s Hospital and Harborview Medical Center. These rotations are integral to the residents' education, allowing them to gain diverse experiences and insights into specialized areas of radiology.
Well-Being and Community
The residency program places a strong emphasis on promoting the well-being of its residents. Numerous social events are organized throughout the year, fostering camaraderie and teamwork among residents. For example, an annual faculty and resident barbecue helps welcome new members into the community, while formal gatherings celebrate the achievements of graduating residents 1.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Madigan Army Medical Center's Diagnostic Radiology residency program is considered to be highly competitive, attracting a broad range of applicants, including both DO and IMG candidates. Applicants should typically ensure they meet specific criteria regarding their graduation year and exam performance. The program has no strict categorical year requirement, which can be an advantage for certain applicants. Details regarding any maximum limits on failed STEP exams should be addressed directly in the application instructions.
Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship opportunities, including the support for J-1 and H-1B visa types for international medical graduates. This facilitates the inclusion of a diverse group of residents, aligning with the program’s commitment to inclusivity.
Teaching Opportunities
Residents have opportunities to lead educational sessions, enhancing their teaching skills while contributing to the educational development of fellow residents and medical students. This not only solidifies their own knowledge but also enriches the learning atmosphere within the program.
Website
Director
Erik Dedekam, MDProgram Director, Diagnostic Radiology Residency Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$69,324First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
230Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Tacoma, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Tacoma, WA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Tacoma has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, but the downtown area has seen improvements in recent years. It's advisable to pay attention to your surroundings, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Tacoma offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports. The city is also home to museums, art galleries, and theaters. Nearby Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Climate: Tacoma has a mild climate with wet winters and dry summers. Expect some rain throughout the year, but temperatures are relatively moderate.
- Races and Population: Tacoma is a diverse city with a population that includes Caucasians, Hispanic/Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans.
- Education: Tacoma is home to the University of Washington Tacoma campus and several other higher education institutions. The city values education, and there are opportunities for both learning and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tacoma is relatively lower than Seattle, but housing costs have been rising in recent years. It's still more affordable than many other major cities on the West Coast.
- Nearest Bigger Cities: Seattle is about 30 miles north of Tacoma, and the driving time can vary depending on traffic but typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Seattle offers a bigger city experience with more job opportunities, cultural events, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, proximity to outdoor activities, diverse population, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate, potential for rainy weather, rising housing costs.
Interview Questions
