University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria Program

The Neuroradiology Fellowship at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Peoria is a prestigious and intensive one-year program accredited by the ACGME. This program is designed to elevate the neuroradiology skills of its fellows through a comprehensive curriculum that balances both clinical training and diagnostic radiology.

Curriculum Overview

The Neuroradiology Fellowship consists of two primary components: a hands-on clinical experience and didactic learning. Over the course of the year, fellows spend three months focusing on neuroangiography, myelography, and selected interventional neuroradiology procedures, depending on their individual skill levels. The remaining nine months are dedicated to diagnostic neuroradiology, which includes a wide array of imaging techniques such as MRI, MRA, PET scans, CT scans, CT angiography, Neurosonography (TCD), functional MRI, and plain film evaluation of the spine and calvarium. The program emphasizes an average of 500-600 diagnostic neuroangiograms and around 125-140 interventional neuroradiologic procedures performed annually, ensuring that the fellows are exposed to a diverse and high-volume clinical environment.1

Training Environment

The fellowship takes place at the OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, an advanced medical facility equipped with modern imaging technology. It supports a robust academic environment underpinned by an active neurosurgery program, pediatric neurology, and neurology with an active stroke team. This integration allows for a rich learning experience through multidisciplinary interactions, particularly through participation in the Neuroradiology Grand Rounds held every Friday morning, where various cases and approaches are discussed across the departments of Neuroradiology, Neurology, and Neurosurgery.1

Fellow Responsibilities

Participants in the fellowship program are expected to engage in a series of clinical responsibilities that not only enhance their technical skills but also nurture their academic growth. They are involved in daily clinical activities and have opportunities to present cases during grand rounds. The program also encourages fellows to participate in journal clubs and clinical research projects, fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration within the medical community.1

Application Process

The Neuroradiology Fellowship at Peoria accepts only one fellow per year. Interested applicants must apply through the ERAS system, adhering to the established application guidelines, and participate in the National Resident Matching Program. Interview selections are conducted virtually, allowing for convenience and wider accessibility for potential candidates.1

Visa Support

The Neuroradiology Fellowship program provides visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. The types of visas that can be supported may include J-1 visas for exchange visitors as well as H-1B visas for temporary workers, making it a favorable option for international medical graduates seeking advanced training opportunities in the United States.1

Competitiveness and Requirements

This fellowship program is notably competitive, favoring candidates with strong academic backgrounds and clinical experiences. Special application requirements may include completion of specific examinations or prior training in radiology.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

Key features setting this fellowship apart include its direct involvement with a high-volume clinical practice, a dedicated faculty of four senior neuroradiologists, and a supportive educational environment that blends practical expertise with comprehensive theoretical learning. Additionally, the mix of pediatric and adult cases within the imaging workload enhances the breadth of experience fellows receive.1