Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Diagnostic Radiology Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a four-year program accredited by the ACGME. Each year, the program welcomes six residents to participate in a comprehensive educational journey designed to develop expertise in all aspects of diagnostic radiology.

Program Goals

The residency program aims to equip residents with the skills necessary to efficiently and accurately interpret diagnostic radiological examinations across all modalities and subspecialties. Residents are also trained to competently perform diagnostic procedures and effectively manage the radiological workup for diverse clinical presentations. Emphasis is placed on applying principles of radiation physics, protective measures, and quality assurance, along with acquiring essential medical knowledge and critical thinking skills required for successful completion of the Core Examination from the American Board of Radiology by the end of the third year 1.

Unique Training Environment

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offers a distinctive residency experience characterized by its location in a semi-rural area that is safe and active, combined with its role as a major academic medical center. The institution serves as a Level 1 trauma center and is home to a nationally recognized Children's Hospital and Cancer Institute. This setting fosters a high case volume and exposure to a broad range of pathology, greatly enhancing the learning experience 1.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The program is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, actively pursuing equitable recruitment practices for residents and faculty. The Radiology department's robust diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives underscore the institution's focus on cultivating a culture of belonging 1.

Clinical Training Structure

The residency is structured over four years (PGY-2 to PGY-5) and requires completion of a clinical year (PGY-1) in ACGME-approved training areas. Candidates must not have more than three months of prior exposure to radiology during this initial year. Subsequent training includes dedicated rotations across major radiology subspecialties, conducted in five-week blocks that promote peer teaching and resident collaboration 1.

First-Year Curriculum

The first year features a dedicated curriculum that includes hands-on training in various imaging modalities and procedures. An initial five-week orientation prepares residents for departmental protocols and workflows, paired with a robust didactic education component 1.

Subspecialty Rotations

During the latter years, residents focus on three specific subspecialties, each lasting approximately 12 weeks. Fourth-year residents also receive intensive procedural training focused on image-guided biopsies and diagnostic procedures, alongside required rotations in breast imaging and nuclear medicine 1.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research by requiring residents to complete a scholarly project during their training. Faculty members are supportive and willing to collaborate on research activities, further enriching the educational landscape 1.

Wellness Initiatives

Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Health are committed to maintaining wellness among residents. This involves addressing emotional, spiritual, social, and physical wellbeing, with resources and programs designed to foster resilience and compassion in medical practice 1.

Application Process and Requirements

Applications to the program are made through the ERAS system, typically during the fourth year of medical school. Candidates are expected to undergo a personal interview as part of the selection process, which aims to identify individuals who will align with the program's culture of kindness, respect, and humility. Specific prerequisites include completion of an accredited clinical year 1.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports international applicants through sponsorship of H-1B and J-1 visa types, providing necessary assistance throughout the application process for foreign applicants 1.

Competitiveness

Diagnostic Radiology at Penn State is known to be highly competitive; the program values candidates with strong academic performance coupled with a demonstrated interest in teamwork and respect for others 1.