MedStar Health Georgetown University Program

The MedStar Health Georgetown University Program in Integrated Interventional Radiology Residency is a pioneering training program that has received ACGME accreditation, starting its operation in 2017. It is a six-year categorical program designed to provide residents with comprehensive training in interventional radiology by ensuring exposure to various procedural, clinical, and consultative experiences across a multitude of specialties.

The program offers two residency spots annually and initiates with an internship year (PGY-1) that combines surgical rotations at both MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and MedStar Washington Hospital Center tailored to future interventional radiologists’ needs. During this period, residents will participate in rotations that encompass vascular surgery, trauma, transplant, and surgical oncology among others, ensuring a solid foundation before diving deeper into interventional radiology.

Curriculum

The integrated residency program's curriculum comprises several key phases:

• Internship Year (PGY-1): This year includes rotation in Interventional Radiology (IR) at both GUH and WHC, as well as rotations in surgical specialties, including critical care and trauma.
• Diagnostic Residency (PGY-2 to PGY-4): Residents undergo three years of Diagnostic Radiology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, participating in essential rotations while also completing IR rotations each academic year.
• Interventional Radiology Training (PGY-5 and PGY-6): The final two years are devoted primarily to clinical rotations in interventional radiology, covering specialized interventions such as peripheral arterial, aortic, and trauma interventions at MedStar and its affiliates, ensuring a robust hands-on experience.

Residents also rotate at an outpatient IR center focusing on various interventions providing a breadth of clinical exposure essential for their competency as interventional radiologists.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the residency program, with opportunities in multiple domains including, but not limited to, uterine fibroid embolization, interventional oncology, and advances in imaging technology. The MedStar Health Research Institute (MHRI) plays a pivotal role by offering faculty mentorship, research courses, statistical support, and opportunities for grant writing and presentations, enhancing the research training experience for residents.

Training Sites

The main training site is the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, which is augmented by several associated centers, offering residents exposure to a diversified clinical environment:

• Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center
• MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute
• CyberKnife and Stereotactic Radiosurgery Centers
• Proton Beam Therapy Center
• Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center
• Breast Imaging Center of Excellence

Call Responsibilities

Residents’ call responsibilities vary throughout the training years, with unique structures set forth for IR and diagnostic coverage. Initially, PGY-1 residents undertake buddy calls during their internship, progressing to solo calls in later years.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The MedStar Integrated Interventional Radiology Residency is regarded as a highly competitive program, attracting numerous applicants annually. Specific application requirements include considerations such as graduation year limits, and prior clinical experiences are advantageous. While the program is primarily oriented toward MD graduates, it is also accessible to DO and internationally trained medical graduates who meet the criteria.

Visa Sponsorship

The program provides visa sponsorship for applicants requiring work authorization in the United States, typically offering support for J-1 and H-1B visa applications as part of their commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

Salary and Benefits

Residents receive competitive salaries and benefits under the governance of MedStar Graduate Medical Education, structured to provide sufficient support throughout the residency period, along with funding for educational resources and conferences.