University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix Program

The Integrated Interventional Radiology/Diagnostic Radiology Residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix aims to develop the next generation of skilled interventional radiologists. Established in 2023, the program emphasizes collaboration, diversity, and creativity, building on the strengths of its partners, including Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, the Phoenix VA Medical Center, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. This multi-site training framework positions residents to gain extensive exposure to a comprehensive array of clinical experiences, facilitating the development of their clinical skills and competencies in high-stakes environments, including trauma and various specialties within interventional radiology.1

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to provide both didactic education and hands-on clinical training. Residents engage in weekly didactic sessions totaling five hours—Mondays focus on pediatric radiology via Zoom, while Wednesdays and Thursdays include lectures, quizzes, and book clubs. Residents also participate in monthly didactics that cover essential topics, including Radiology Grand Rounds, patient safety, and tumor board proceedings. A unique aspect of the program is the dedicated month at the ACR Institute for Radiologic Pathology, which residents attend with expenses covered, as well as a physics course in their third year.3

Clinical Experience and Rotations

Clinical training encompasses diverse rotations at busy Level 1 trauma centers and quaternary care settings. Residents are exposed to various interventional radiology practices, performing high volumes of procedures such as stroke thrombectomies, pulmonary interventions, and oncological intervention cases, with the program averaging over 200 liver oncology cases annually. This extensive training equips residents with the necessary skills and procedural volume essential for a successful career in interventional radiology.3

Research Opportunities

Affiliation with the College of Medicine – Phoenix provides residents with numerous opportunities for research and engagement in academic activities. The program encourages residents to pursue scholarly projects, particularly during research electives towards the end of residency training. This support streamlines residents’ paths for publication and contribution to advancements in the field.7

Training Sites

Residents gain experience in three primary institutions: Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, the Phoenix VA Health Care System, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Each facility brings its unique strengths, from advanced trauma care to specialized treatments for pediatric patients. The training institutions collectively offer residents ample exposure to complex clinical conditions, a variety of patient demographics, and a wealth of procedural experiences.8

Program Highlights

The residency program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and collaboration, with a commitment to training residents who embody these principles. Special program benefits include access to a comprehensive Pulmonary Embolism Response Team and substantial support for educational resources, including book funds and subscriptions to valuable medical platforms. The program also ensures an environment conducive to professional development by providing wellness resources and organizing team-building events throughout the year.9

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. It typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types, accommodating the diverse applicant pool interested in pursuing residency in interventional radiology.6

Application Process and Requirements

Prospective residents must apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program employs a competitive selection process seeking candidates who demonstrate initiative, passion, and a strong desire to lead in the field of clinical interventional radiology. Candidates should have graduated within recent years, with specific benchmarks regarding exam performances considered.2

Life in Phoenix

Residents will experience living in Phoenix, the fifth largest city in the U.S., during their training. The city offers an urban environment complemented by recreational opportunities, attractive cost of living, and a vibrant food scene. With more than 300 sunny days annually, outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for activities, including hiking in the surrounding desert preserves and enjoying numerous cultural events throughout the year.10