Medical College of Georgia Program

The Integrated Interventional Radiology Residency Program at Augusta University Medical Center, under the Medical College of Georgia, offers a rigorous five-year ACGME-accredited curriculum primarily aimed at training proficient interventional radiologists. The program admits one resident each year and emphasizes high-quality education in vascular and interventional radiology, including specialized domains such as interventional oncology and endovascular procedures. The training incorporates a well-rounded mix of diagnostic and interventional cases, which prepares residents to handle a wide array of medical conditions and pathologies, ensuring they are adept with both imaging and procedural skills necessary for their careers.1

The program's structure adheres to a foundational three years of diagnostic radiology training, after which residents transition into clinical and procedural aspects of interventional radiology during the fourth and fifth years. Close faculty supervision is a hallmark of the program, facilitating a progressive increase in autonomy based on individual performance. Residents participate in medical training that aligns with the requirements to achieve membership in the Society of Interventional Radiology.1

In addition to standard clinical rotations, the curriculum includes specialized experiences such as an ICU rotation, enhancing the clinical skills necessary for a comprehensive understanding of patient care. Fourth-year residents spend most of their time in interventional radiology rotations, during which they refine their procedural skills and complete any remaining requirements necessary for qualifying to sit for the diagnostic radiology board exams. The final year offers concentrated, hands-on opportunities in interventional procedures, fostering longitudinal patient care and enhancing surgical acuity.1

Educational activities are integral to the residency, including mandatory attendance at interventional radiology-specific conferences, GI tumor boards, and vascular conferences. Residents actively engage in monthly morbidity and mortality sessions and journal clubs, cultivating a scholarly atmosphere. Research opportunities are encouraged, with residents expected to undertake a project suitable for presentation at relevant conferences, such as those organized by the Society of Interventional Radiology and other esteemed IR societies.1 The faculty actively support endeavors to publish research findings in well-respected peer-reviewed journals, such as the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology.1

The program not only emphasizes clinical proficiency but also facilitates advanced training opportunities in areas like interventional oncology and endovascular interventions, thereby allowing residents to pursue individual interests within the expansive field.1

In terms of visa support, the Integrated Interventional Radiology Residency Program sponsors J-1 visas, making it accessible for qualified international medical graduates. The program is considered competitive, providing an environment welcoming to a diverse range of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. However, specific application requirements can be stringent; ideally, candidates should have graduated from medical school within a certain timeframe and are typically not permitted to have more than one failed attempt on standardized exams, such as the USMLE.1

Residents benefit from a structured call schedule, participating in both Diagnostic Radiology Call during the initial years and Interventional Call in the later years of training, ensuring exposure to real-world emergency scenarios and on-call experiences crucial for future professional roles.1

The Integrated Interventional Radiology Residency Program demonstrates a commitment to producing proficient, well-rounded physicians equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the demanding field of interventional radiology. The program emphasizes hands-on training, robust research opportunities, and a supportive educational environment, fostering the development of future leaders in medical practice.