Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

Neuroradiology Fellowship Overview

The Neuroradiology Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a one-year, ACGME-accredited program designed to train specialists in all aspects of neuroradiology. The program accommodates one fellow per year, ensuring personalized training and mentorship.

Program Details

The fellowship focuses on comprehensive training in diagnostic techniques and the interpretation of neuroradiological imaging, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), myelography, and head and neck imaging. Additionally, it encompasses advanced CNS imaging modalities such as MR spectroscopy, perfusion MRI, diffusion tensor MRI, and CT perfusion and angiography.

Training Sites

The training takes place primarily at the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, which serves as a tertiary-care center for the central Pennsylvania region. The center is supported by seven full-time ABR- and CAQ-certified neuroradiologists, ensuring fellows receive robust supervision and mentorship throughout their training.

Procedural Experience

The program offers extensive, hands-on training in spinal procedures, including vertebral augmentation, radiofrequency ablation, and various injection techniques. This allows fellows to develop a strong foundation in both diagnosis and interventions within neuroradiology.

Curriculum

The Neuroradiology Fellowship curriculum includes four core rotations alongside on-call shifts, conferences, and academic activities:

• Diagnostic Neuroradiology: This rotation offers exposure to an extensive range of neuroradiology studies, such as CT, MRI, non-invasive CT and MR angiography.
• Interventional Spine: Fellows gain hands-on experience in both diagnostic and therapeutic spine procedures, focusing on advanced imaging-guided interventions.
• Neuroangiography: Participation in neuroangiography procedures such as cerebral angiography, acute stroke care, and vascular malformation treatment.
• Pediatric Neuroradiology: One day per week dedicated to examining pediatric pathologies, expanding the fellow's expertise in this specialized discipline.

Scholarly Activities

Fellows are actively encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, including presenting at annual meetings like the ASNR, RSNA, and ARRS. Each fellow is allotted time weekly to pursue academic interests, furthering their research capabilities.

Application Process

All applications must be submitted via ERAS, with participation in the National Residency Matching Program. Applications are reviewed starting December 1, and positions are filled exclusively through the match process. The program does not accept applicants outside of this framework.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support and can sponsor various visa types for qualified international medical graduates, ensuring inclusivity and diversity within the fellowship.

Competitiveness and Applicant Requirements

The Neuroradiology Fellowship is highly competitive, welcoming both US MDs and osteopathic graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). Specific application prerequisites may include graduation timelines and performance metrics; detailed criteria are provided in the application guidelines.

Wellness Initiatives

Recognizing the importance of health and wellness in medical training, the program emphasizes personal well-being with resources available for emotional and physical support. Opportunities for social networking exist through initiatives like the Partners in Medicine program for fellows and their significant others.

Diversity and Inclusion

The institution is committed to fostering a diverse environment with various initiatives aimed at promoting equity and inclusion. Programs are in place to ensure that every resident and fellow feels supported throughout their training experience.

Facilities and Equipment

The fellowship is supported by state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple MRIs, MDCTs, and a dedicated angiography suite, allowing for comprehensive training with advanced technology.