Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Phoenix) Program

The Radiation Oncology Residency at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona, is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare residents for successful careers in clinical practice, academic roles, or fellowship training. This program uniquely integrates a one-year Transitional Year Residency (PGY-1) with a four-year Radiation Oncology Residency (PGY-2 to PGY-5), ensuring trainees receive a well-rounded foundation in medical knowledge and patient care.

Curriculum Overview

The training curriculum is meticulously structured, beginning with the PGY-1 year focused on basic medical training, followed by four years dedicated to radiation oncology. During this residency, residents are expected to grow in clinical responsibility, assuming increasingly independent patient care duties. This progressive responsibility prepares residents for real-world clinical scenarios, building proficiency in patient evaluations, treatment planning, and delivery of care, all while fostering essential skills in professionalism and communication 1.

Rotations are organized by disease sites, giving residents exposure to a variety of clinical cases and treatment modalities. The residency features didactic training through core courses that encompass various aspects of oncology, including radiobiology and radiation physics. Additionally, a senior resident associate rotation in the final year allows for semi-independent management of patient care, facilitating a smooth transition to practice 4.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research, with structured time allocated for research projects spanning eight months throughout the residency. This includes the opportunity to work on clinical, radiobiology, or physics projects, with resources such as mentorship from faculty, dedicated biostatisticians, and access to clinical research staff to assist in project development and data evaluation 5. Regular presentation of scholarly work at national meetings is supported, with up to 10 days reserved annually for this purpose 1.

Training Sites and Facilities

The residency leverages the resources of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, recognized as a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. The facility is equipped with the latest technology for radiation therapy, including four linear accelerators and advanced therapies like proton beam therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery 7. Residents benefit from a collaborative environment where they work closely with faculty and other specialties to deliver best-practice care for a diverse patient population.

Faculty and Mentorship

The program's faculty comprises experienced radiation oncologists committed to education and mentorship. With a low faculty-to-resident ratio, residents receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their training. Faculty members include specialists in various oncology fields, allowing residents to learn from leaders who are integral to national standards in patient care and education 6.

Resident Life and Wellness

Wellness is a priority within this residency, emphasizing a healthy work-life balance. The unique wellness curriculum includes both lectures and activities focused on personal health, finance, and resiliency, facilitating an environment where trainees can thrive both personally and professionally8. The program fosters a supportive community, with social groups and wellness events designed to enhance camaraderie among residents.

Application Process

The residency typically offers one position annually through a competitive application process. Candidates must complete their medical education and provide all required documentation before the stated deadline. Both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates are encouraged to apply and will find that the program is known for being welcoming to diverse applicants, including those from international backgrounds 2. Visa sponsorship is also available for international applicants, ensuring access to training opportunities for qualified candidates.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Community

Mayo Clinic places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion within its workforce. The program actively recruits individuals from diverse backgrounds, promoting various initiatives to support minority groups in medicine. Participation in organizations dedicated to women in medicine and other underrepresented communities is also encouraged, fostering a comprehensive and inclusive learning environment 9.

In summary, the Radiation Oncology Residency at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix stands out for its integrated training approach, robust support for research and professional development, and commitment to trainee well-being. This program not only equips residents with clinical expertise but also prepares them to make significant contributions to the field of radiation oncology.