Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Radiation Oncology Residency Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals is a fully certified program by the Residency Review Committee and the American Board of Radiology. This four-year post-internship program is designed to educate residents in the principles and practices of radiation oncology, emphasizing the multidisciplinary treatment of cancer patients and preparing residents for successful completion of board exams. Annually, the program fills two resident positions, ensuring each resident receives comprehensive training across various rotations.

The residency encompasses rotations at several key training sites, including Froedtert Hospital, Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital, and Children's Wisconsin. These locations collectively serve a substantial patient population, treating approximately 2400 patients per year in the Department of Radiation Oncology. The primary site at Froedtert Hospital treats around 1200 patients annually, providing a robust clinical experience for residents. The collaboration between Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin enhances the program by combining advanced technical components with academic faculty expertise.

Curriculum Overview

The Radiation Oncology residency is structured to provide a progressive learning experience. Residents undergo various rotations throughout the four years, ensuring exposure to multiple subspecialties and comprehensive clinical training. The curriculum includes:

• PGY-1: The initial year is available through the Internal Medicine program, with a focus on oncologic subspecialties, including gynecologic, head and neck oncology, and radiology.
• PGY-2: A full year of clinical work in radiation oncology, with options to rotate in non-radiation specialties.
• PGY-3: Includes both clinical work in radiation oncology and essential rotations such as physics and medical oncology.
• PGY-4: This year is dedicated to clinical duties and research, allowing residents to participate in pivotal projects in radiation oncology.
• PGY-5: Advanced clinical practice at the VA Medical Center and specialized rotations with faculty.

Rotations and Training Sites

Rotations are a vital part of the residency program, lasting three months each, with specific exceptions for certain specialties. Key rotations include:

• Clinical rotations at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Clinical Cancer Center with specialized faculty.
• General radiation oncology rotations at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center and Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital.
• Specialized rotations in surgical pathology, oncology imaging, and adult medical oncology.
• A dedicated six-month research rotation to foster critical research skills.

Research and Academic Opportunities

The program emphasizes research engagement, providing six-month rotation opportunities for residents to dive into specific research projects. Areas of focus include:

• Radiation biology, exploring normal tissue damage and mitigation strategies.
• Radiation physics, working on innovative technologies to enhance treatment delivery.
• Clinical and translational research, offering residents opportunities to engage in meaningful studies that contribute to the field of radiation oncology.

Application Process

Applying for the Radiation Oncology Residency Program requires completing the application via the Electronic Residency Application Services (ERAS). Specific application requirements include:

• Submission of three letters of recommendation from faculty.
• Dean’s letter and personal statement.
• Medical school transcripts and USMLE Board scores.

Applications open on September 15 annually, with a deadline of November 1. Selected candidates will participate in interviews during December and January.2

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is friendly to both DO and IMG candidates, showcasing a commitment to diversity in training. Visa support is offered for specific sponsorship types, primarily focusing on J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing international graduates to apply for residency positions.

Benefits and Living in Milwaukee

Residents in the program receive a comprehensive benefits package. Living in Milwaukee enhances the residency experience with its rich cultural scene, history, and community engagement opportunities. The city offers an appealing environment for both personal and professional growth.

Past Residents and Alumni

Graduates of the program have successfully transitioned into various roles, positioning themselves in both academic medicine and private practice across the country, highlighting the program's effectiveness in preparing residents for their future careers.