Naval Medical Center (Portsmouth) Program
Location:
Portsmouth, VASpecialty:
Musculoskeletal radiologyACGME Code:
4265142001Program Overview
The Naval Medical Center Portsmouth offers a Fellowship in Musculoskeletal Radiology, distinguished as a one-year program situated within a renowned military medical center in Portsmouth, VA. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), ensuring a high standard of training and education.
This fellowship seeks candidates who have graduated from medical school and completed both an ACGME-accredited PGY1 training program and an ACGME-accredited Diagnostic Radiology Residency program. A categorical year in musculoskeletal specialty is not required. The program accepts a total complement of two fellows, typically admitting one fellow per year.
The fellowship provides opportunities for research, continuous education, and hands-on clinical experiences that are critical for a successful career in radiology focusing on musculoskeletal conditions.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum for the Musculoskeletal Radiology Fellowship is built to deliver comprehensive training aligned with the competencies defined by the American Board of Radiology (ABR). It includes a robust didactic schedule that combines both imaging and non-imaging topics, delivered through various instructional methods:
- Daily Noon Lectures covering core Musculoskeletal Radiology topics.
- Weekly Joint Radiology & Orthopedics Pre-Operative Conferences.
- Monthly Journal Clubs and Command Grand Rounds.
- Optional sessions including Physics Lectures and Interesting Case Conferences.
The academic year consists of 13 four-week block rotations, featuring on-site training at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and an exclusive four-week rotation at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), which includes exposure to the WRNMMC Rheumatology Fellowship Program.
Fellows will also have the option to partake in elective rotations, tailored to their educational goals, with on-site and off-site opportunities, allowing them to explore specialties such as Neuroradiology and Pediatric Radiology.
Clinical Practice and Research
During the fellowship, participants gain practical experience across various imaging modalities, including radiography, CT, ultrasound (US), MRI, fluoroscopy, and nuclear medicine. The exposure to a diverse case mix, particularly in sports orthopedics, spine issues, and rheumatological conditions, equips fellows with a well-rounded skill set essential for their future careers.
Research activity is a critical component of the fellowship, encouraging fellows to engage in quality improvement and scholarly projects. Dedicated academic time is provided for participation in research initiatives, presentations at national and regional conferences, and collaborative education with radiology residents.
Training Sites
Training occurs at premier healthcare facilities, including:
- Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, providing a multifaceted clinical environment.
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
- Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk, Virginia for off-site rotations.
The program's affiliation with various military medical centers facilitates an enriched training experience, ensuring fellows are exposed to comprehensive musculoskeletal disorders.
Competitive Application and Requirements
Application to the fellowship is highly competitive. It is important for candidates to demonstrate both clinical excellence and a keen interest in musculoskeletal radiology. Prospective applicants must submit a current CV, personal statement outlining career goals in musculoskeletal radiology, and clarify any adverse information in their graduate medical education documentation, including any licensing exam failures.
Fellows must also be mindful of visa requirements, as the program supports J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship for international medical graduates seeking to train within the program.
Teaching and Mentorship Opportunities
Fellows engage actively in teaching, preparing and presenting educational material to radiology residents and participating in multidisciplinary settings. Each fellow is paired with a faculty mentor to provide guidance and support throughout their training.
Support and Well-being
The fellowship emphasizes the well-being of its fellows, offering dedicated time during training blocks for education, research, and personal development. The atmosphere fosters professional growth within a supportive community, promoting a balanced residency experience.
Conclusion
The Musculoskeletal Radiology Fellowship at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is a comprehensive program designed to educate and train the next generation of radiologists in a military and clinical setting, providing them with the skills to excel in various musculoskeletal conditions.
Website
Director
Carl Cowen, MDMusculoskeletal Radiologist Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Portsmouth, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Portsmouth, VA
Portsmouth, VA is a city in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia, offering a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Here's an overview of what living in Portsmouth looks like:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Portsmouth has varying neighborhoods in terms of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's advisable to research specific neighborhoods before choosing a place to live.
- Fun Activities: Portsmouth boasts a rich history with attractions like the Children's Museum of Virginia and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Elizabeth River Park and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard Museum. The city also hosts events like the Olde Towne Farmer's Market.
- Climate: Portsmouth experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.
- Races and Population: Portsmouth has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
- Education: Portsmouth offers various educational opportunities, including public schools, private academies, and higher education institutions like Tidewater Community College.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Portsmouth is reasonable compared to other cities in the region, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Portsmouth is located near cities like Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Norfolk is approximately a 20-minute drive away, offering a range of amenities, dining options, and cultural attractions.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse population, reasonable cost of living.
- Cons: Varied neighborhood safety, may require research and caution.
Interview Questions
