SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program

The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine offers an Interventional Radiology Residency Program that is both comprehensive and focused, spanning five years following a one-year clinical internship. This residency program is fully accredited and is designed to produce well-rounded practitioners trained in both interventional and diagnostic radiology. The program accepts one resident annually, which emphasizes a close-knit educational environment and personalized training.

The initial three years are concentrated on building strong diagnostic radiology skills that correlate closely with the diagnostics program. Residents undertake a minimum of one rotation per year in interventional radiology, gaining foundational image-guided intervention experience. The concluding two years focus on advanced training, with the majority of rotations dedicated to interventional radiology and related areas of practice. By the end of the program, graduates will achieve dual certification in both interventional and diagnostic radiology, which positions them for success in various medical settings such as academic institutions and private practices 1.

Curriculum and Training

The training includes hands-on experience with a diverse range of procedures, from Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) procedures to advanced thermal ablation techniques and vascular interventional therapy. The faculty encompasses a wide array of expertise that covers a comprehensive scope of both adult and pediatric interventional radiology procedures 1.

Rotations and Facilities

The program provides rotations at several major teaching hospitals, including SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, the VA Saint Louis Health Care System, and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital. This diversity allows residents to encounter a high volume and broad spectrum of pathology in a Level 1 Trauma Center. There are also opportunities for limited rotations at SSM Health St. Mary's Health Center, providing further exposure to the private practice aspect of radiology 1.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities and research projects, further enhancing their practical skills and academic knowledge. This aspect of the training helps prepare them for the dynamic challenges in either academic or community practice settings 1.

Competitive Application Process

The Interventional Radiology residency is notably competitive. Applicants are expected to submit applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and participate in the National Resident Matching Program. Specific requirements include valid United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) scores, three letters of recommendation (including one from an interventional radiology faculty member), and documentation regarding visa status since the program sponsors J1 and H visas 1. Candidates must also be US citizens or permanent residents, and they typically must be within two years of their graduation from medical school.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program integrates independent call responsibilities, allowing residents to develop confidence and skills comparable to those expected in a private practice setting. Other notable features comprise a collegial atmosphere, a 100% pass rate for the American Board of Radiology core exam, access to educational resources such as RADprimer and STATdx, and financial support for professional development, including attendance at board preparation courses 1.

Fringe Benefits

Residents enjoy several benefits including comprehensive health coverage, a meal allowance while on call, and a structured vacation schedule allowing for personal time off as needed. This structure not only supports the educational journey of the residents but also fosters a healthy work-life balance 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

This program is committed to fostering a diverse environment, welcoming applicants regardless of their medical background, including both MD and DO candidates. The program's emphasis on equity in both education and patient care reflects its recognition of the importance of a multicultural approach in healthcare 1.