SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program

The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine offers a fully-accredited, five-year residency program in Interventional Radiology, which follows a year-long clinical internship. Aimed at developing comprehensive diagnostic radiology skills, the first three years of the program closely parallel the Diagnostic Radiology Residency Program. Residents are expected to rotate through Interventional Radiology (IR) at least once annually, thereby acquiring basic image-guided intervention skills. The latter half of the program shifts focus towards advanced IR techniques and related specialties.

Graduates of this residency are granted dual certification in both interventional and diagnostic radiology, equipping them with the competencies required for both academic and private practice settings. The program’s faculty are adept in a vast array of adult and pediatric procedures, including but not limited to TIPS, TACE, Y-90 radiotherapy, thermal ablation, and various dialysis interventions, highlighting the program's comprehensive training regimen 1.

Training Sites

The residency program is conducted across three major teaching hospitals: SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, which includes its Cancer Center, the VA Saint Louis Health Care System, and the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. In addition, limited rotations are provided through SSM Health St. Mary’s Health Center to expose residents to private practice.

Program Features

The residency offers several robust features, including:

• A Level 1 Trauma Center with a diverse volume of pathology.
• Independent overnight call responsibilities to enhance practical skills and confidence.
• Access to leading-edge interventional radiology practices with hands-on experience.
• A dynamic and supportive departmental culture with esteemed faculty members.
• A 100% pass rate for the new American Board of Radiology (ABR) core examination.

Residents also benefit from educational resources such as free subscriptions to RADprimer and STATdx in their third year and funding for books and board preparation courses if desired. Flexible vacation policies allow for three weeks of annual leave, alongside in-house moonlighting opportunities for additional income. Competitive fringe benefits include an on-call meal allowance, malpractice insurance, and health coverage for residents and eligible families, with optional dental and vision insurance available.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The residency program is regarded as highly competitive, accepting only seven residency positions annually. Participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) is required, and applications are exclusively accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must submit valid United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) scores, letters of recommendation, and provide details regarding visa status. Notably, Saint Louis University supports J-1 and H-1B visas at the program's discretion 2.

Interviews and Candidates

Interviews for the residency take place in the Department of Radiology at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital. The interview day typically includes meetings with faculty and current residents, along with departmental tours and presentations such as noon conferences. Candidates are evaluated for their preparedness to handle the rigors of residency. Effective communication skills and the ability to master diverse medical knowledge are essential qualities sought in potential applicants.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Residents are encouraged to participate in research projects, contributing to the academic environment of the program. There are also teaching opportunities available, enabling residents to engage in both instruction and scholarly activities during their training.