Rush University Medical Center Program

Overview of the Rush University Medical Center Interventional Radiology Program

The Integrated Vascular and Interventional Radiology (VIR) training program at Rush University Medical Center is a comprehensive training pathway designed to develop interventional radiologists equipped with advanced clinical skills and knowledge. The program encompasses six years of integrated training that includes a one-year surgical internship followed by three years of diagnostic radiology and two years of dedicated interventional radiology training.

The Rush VIR department houses a team of seven full-time interventional radiologists who provide VIR services across multiple sites within the Rush University health system, including Rush University Medical Center and Rush Oak Park Hospital. The program aims to deliver the most current and clinically comprehensive patient care through a multidimensional approach that includes inpatient and outpatient services.

Curriculum and Rotations

The integrated program structure begins with a one-year surgical internship (PGY-1) that is specifically tailored to enhance the clinical skills of future interventional radiologists. This year includes two dedicated blocks on the VIR service alongside rotations that expose residents to patients commonly encountered in interventional radiology practice.

From PGY-2 to PGY-4, residents engage in focused diagnostic radiology training interspersed with interventional radiology clinical rotations. This phase of the program ensures that future interventionalists develop a solid foundation in diagnostic imaging, necessary for successful practice in interventional radiology.

The final two years (PGY-5 and PGY-6) concentrate on the clinical aspects of interventional radiology. This intensive training offers exposure to a wide variety of procedures, covering various interventional domains such as oncology, arterial disease management, pain management, transplant medicine, and more.

Training Sites

The primary training site is Rush University Medical Center, which is recognized as a tertiary care hospital located in downtown Chicago. Residents spend the majority of their clinical assignments in this facility, known for its comprehensive approach to patient care.

Other training sites include:

• Rush Oak Park Hospital (ROPH): A satellite hospital located approximately 8 miles from downtown Chicago, where residents experience a collaborative environment with the Rush IR group.
• Rubschlager Oncology and Neurosciences Center: A new facility featuring advanced radiology equipment, promoting multidisciplinary care alongside existing training.
• Rush Copley Medical Center: Although currently there are no resident rotations here, the site receives patients transferred for specialized interventional care.
• Rush MD Anderson Cancer Center: Collaboration with this esteemed cancer center enhances training opportunities for residents dedicated to oncology.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages research involvement and scholarly activities. Residents are supported in presenting their findings at national conferences, given opportunities to participate in multicenter clinical trials, and collaborate with a diverse faculty engaged in both industry-sponsored and non-industry-sponsored research.

Application Requirements

To apply for the integrated VIR program, candidates must fulfill specific requirements:

• Complete an ACGME-accredited residency in diagnostic radiology.
• International medical graduates must hold a valid and current radiology board certification from their country and be eligible for licensure in Illinois.
• Successful completion of the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Steps 1, 2, and 3 is necessary for international applicants.

Applications should be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and accompanied by letters of recommendation from professional sources, including an interventional radiologist.

Visa Sponsorship and International Candidates

The program provides visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates, specifically focusing on J-1 and H-1B visas. This support is critical for candidates requiring assistance to continue their training in the United States.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

This program is considered to be highly competitive, with a robust selection process ensuring applicants possess the necessary qualifications and dedication to excel in the field of interventional radiology. All candidates are thoroughly reviewed, and selection is based not only on academic performance but also on the potential to contribute to the program's distinguished environment.

Salary and Benefits

Residents in the program receive competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Annual reimbursements for conferences and educational materials
• Meal allowance and wellness days, among other perks

Community and Alumni Network

The program fosters a strong sense of community among trainees, with various events, wellness retreats, and meet-and-greet opportunities regularly organized to promote collaboration and networking. Alumni of the program move on to successful careers, often contributing significantly to the field of vascular and interventional radiology.