Residency Advisor
Birmingham, AL

Specialty:

Radiation oncology

ACGME Code:

4300121002

NRMP Program Code:

1007430A0
STEP 240H1B

The UAB Department of Radiation Oncology offers a comprehensive residency program designed to produce expert clinicians in radiation oncology, radiation physics, and radiobiology. The program is renowned for its rigorous training and recognition as one of the nation's top programs, where graduates frequently rank in the upper quartile on board examinations. This residency program is accredited and provides a holistic approach to cancer management by engaging in multidisciplinary clinics and tumor boards alongside specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, pathology, radiology, and genetics 1.

During the residency, incoming residents participate in an orientation that includes a national standardized curriculum to instill essential concepts and skills in radiation oncology. They will be mentored by chief and senior residents as they enter their clinical rotations, facilitating a smooth transition into the clinical setting 2.

Clinical Education

Residents engage in extensive clinical training, encompassing at least 36 months in direct patient care, where they work one-on-one with attending physicians. The rotations focus on various organ sites, enabling residents to gain experience with both common and rare cancers. Throughout this training, residents assist in patient consultations, treatment planning, and emergency interventions in radiation oncology. Furthermore, the diverse patient population served by UAB enhances the learning experience by exposing residents to various clinical scenarios 1.

Didactic Curriculum

The didactic portion of the residency is robust, with weekly educational sessions grouped by disease site. These sessions involve presentations from faculty members, visiting experts, and residents themselves. Key components of the curriculum include anatomy, contouring, radiographic interpretation, and treatment planning. A monthly journal club complements the didactic sessions, ensuring residents stay up-to-date with current literature 1. The program also organizes a mock oral examination annually, preparing residents for board examinations 2.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pillar of the residency program, and residents are encouraged to engage in projects tailored to their interests. The collaborative environment of UAB, combined with its diverse patient demographics, allows residents to pursue innovative research endeavors with ample academic resources. This includes opportunities for clinical trials, outcomes research, and translational studies within the NCI-designated O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center 1.

Facilities and Technology

The residency utilizes the latest in radiation therapy technologies, including modern linear accelerators and advanced tracking systems. Facilities include six external-beam radiation therapy machines, a high-dose rate remote afterloader, and state-of-the-art CT simulators. Comprehensive hands-on training is provided for advanced techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery, brachytherapy, and other innovative radiation modalities 3.

Application Process and Competitiveness

UAB typically offers three radiation oncology positions each year through the NRMP MATCH, accepting applicants at the PGY-2 level after an accredited internship. The application process emphasizes residency applicants' qualifications and experiences, thereby making it a competitive program, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs 4. Special requirements or considerations might include a maximum number of failed USMLE steps, with a strong emphasis on academic performances and clinical experiences.

Visa Support

UAB is supportive of international applicants, offering visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types for those who require it to study within the program. This enables qualified international medical graduates to participate in the residency program while addressing their legal residency needs 4.

Life in Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama, offers a conducive living environment with all the amenities of a city while retaining the charm of Southern hospitality. It is recognized for its affordable housing, diverse culinary scene, and extensive outdoor recreation options. Residents can enjoy activities in the abundant green spaces around the city and access easy travel routes to nearby attractions 5. The city has undergone a cultural revival, making it a vibrant place to live and train.

Benefits for Residents

The UAB Department of Radiation Oncology provides a competitive salary, health and dental insurance, paid vacation, educational funding, and other benefits ensuring residents are well supported throughout their training. Opportunities also exist for additional funding based on teaching and publication efforts 1.

Website

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

3, 3, 3, 3 (4 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since April 1973

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

50 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

12 hours

First Year Salary:

$63,236

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:
-
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.1X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:
240
Visa Sponsorship:
H1B
YOG Cutoff:
-

Match History

Track: 1007430A0

2024

2 of 3

2023

2 of 2

2022

3 of 3

2021

3 of 3

2020

2 of 3

Track: 1007430R0

2022

1 of 1

2021

0 of 1
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Birmingham, AL

Population
200,733
Income
$44,951
Education
30.8%
Employment
56.2%
Health
13.3%
Age
35
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Birmingham, AL

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    Birmingham has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, but certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's advisable to research specific areas before choosing a residence.
  • Fun Activities
    The city offers a variety of cultural and outdoor activities, including museums, parks, restaurants, and live music venues.
  • Climate
    Birmingham has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity and occasional storms.
  • Races and Population
    Birmingham is a diverse city with a mix of races, ethnicities, and cultures. The population is around 200,000 people.
  • Education
    Birmingham is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for further education and cultural events.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Birmingham is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for residents.
  • Proximity to Bigger Cities
    Birmingham is within driving distance of major cities like Atlanta, Georgia (about 2.5 hours away), and Nashville, Tennessee (around 3 hours away).
  • Pros
    Affordable cost of living, diverse culture, proximity to other cities.
  • Cons
    Higher crime rate in some areas, hot and humid summers.

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