University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson Program

The Interventional Radiology Independent Residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson is a cutting-edge, two-year ACGME-accredited program specifically designed for individuals who have completed a four-year diagnostic radiology residency. This program is recognized by significant organizations such as the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and the American Board of Radiology (ABR), melding procedural skills with critical peri-procedural care that extends beyond traditional diagnostic radiology practices.1

Program leadership is robust, with Gregory Woodhead, MD, PhD, serving as the Program Director alongside Associate Program Directors Jack Hannallah, MD, MPH, MBA, and Lucas Struycken, MD. Under their guidance, the program promotes transformative learning experiences that are pioneering in the field of interventional radiology.1

Curriculum

The curriculum is meticulously structured to ensure comprehensive exposure to essential clinical rotations. Trainees engage in outpatient clinic experiences and inpatient rounding along with consult services, facilitating in-depth interaction with various patient demographics and clinical situations.1

Residents are expected to complete mandatory ICU rotations in their first year, alongside gaining experience in non-invasive vascular imaging techniques, including advanced computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Such training significantly enhances the resident's understanding of imaging-guided diagnostic and interventional procedures pertinent to various disorders.1

The curriculum also incorporates critical learning components such as the fundamentals of radiation physics, biology, and protection. Trainees acquire a rich understanding of both vascular and non-vascular interventions, cementing their ability to perform a wide array of minimally invasive techniques.1

Program Progression

Throughout the residency, residents steadily take on increasing responsibilities under close supervision from faculty members. An essential feature of this program is the structured evaluation system, which includes quarterly evaluations that provide feedback on educational progress. Biannual meetings with training directors further bolster this growth, ensuring residents are consistently informed and can address any challenges within their training.1

Research Opportunities

The Interventional Radiology Independent Residency also aligns closely with research initiatives, offering opportunities for residents to engage in groundbreaking research. This engagement not only enhances their clinical skills but also prepares them for future positions as leaders in the field of interventional radiology.1

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Candidates interested in this competitive residency program are required to possess a completed four-year diagnostic radiology residency and must have successfully completed an Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR) program from an ACGME-accredited institution to be eligible for admission into the second and final year.1

Visa Support and Types

The program supports visa applications for international medical graduates, typically sponsoring J-1 visas. This enables aspiring candidates from around the globe to apply and participate in the residency program, broadening the diversity and inclusivity of the training environment.1

Unique Aspects

What sets the Interventional Radiology Independent Residency apart is its dual certification pathway, which allows residents to become certified in both Interventional Radiology and Diagnostic Radiology, while also preparing them for the Certificate of Added Qualification examination in Interventional Radiology.1

Additionally, the program accommodates both ESIR-trained and non-ESIR-trained residents, demonstrating flexibility in their approach to recruitment and training, ultimately enriching the collaborative learning environment.1