University of Kentucky College of Medicine Program

The ACGME-accredited Neuroradiology Fellowship Program at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine offers a comprehensive one-year training program dedicated to neuroradiology. This highly specialized training is intended for physicians who have completed a diagnostic radiology residency and are either certified by or eligible for certification by the American Board of Radiology or possess an equivalent certification. Each year, the program accepts one fellow, with training primarily conducted at the University of Kentucky Medical Center and services extended to the Kentucky Children's Hospital 1.

Scope of Training

The program emphasizes a well-structured, comprehensive educational experience that covers critical areas of neuroradiology, such as:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Interventional procedures, including angiography and myelography
• Head and neck radiology, spine imaging, and brain imaging
• Advanced CNS imaging techniques like MR spectroscopy, perfusion MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, and angiography

Fellows receive training and supervision from faculty who are certified by the American Board of Radiology and have additional qualifications in neuroradiology, ensuring exposure to the latest practices and technologies in the field 1.

Research and Academic Involvement

Fellows play a vital role in the academic and research activities within the department. They participate in didactic conferences, advanced imaging seminars, journal clubs, and presentations of interesting cases. Moreover, each fellow completes a mentored research or quality improvement project, enhancing both their research skills and knowledge application. Faculty members, engaged in funded research initiatives, facilitate fellows' involvement in ongoing projects, providing additional academic enrichment opportunities 1.

Collaborative Opportunities

The Neuroradiology Service actively fosters collaborative clinical and academic relationships with various departments, including neurology, pediatrics, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, and neuropathology. Fellows can engage in multidisciplinary conferences, contributing to care discussions in complex cases involving neuro-oncology, ENT, and pediatric tumor board meetings 1.

Imaging Facilities

State-of-the-art imaging technology is accessible within the Neuroradiology division. Facilities include:

• Two 3Tesla MRI scanners and five 1.5Tesla MRI scanners
• One 64-detector CT scanner and two dual-source energy 192-detector CT scanners
• Three 128-detector CT scanners and one dedicated portable CT scanner for interventional procedures
• Two biplane angiography suites for neuroangiography and spinal procedures

These advanced facilities support both clinical and research endeavors, providing fellows with hands-on experience during training 1.

Salary and Benefits

The program offers a competitive salary structure along with additional benefits, which can be found in detail through the appropriate medical education resources. Beyond financial considerations, Lexington, Kentucky, provides a desirable living environment, combining the benefits of a large city with a welcoming small-town atmosphere. The city features numerous amenities, including parks, dining, and cultural attractions like the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Keeneland, and the Kentucky Horse Park 1.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit an application via ERAS for the July 2024 appointment year. Required documents include a current curriculum vitae, a completed universal application, medical school transcripts, a dean's letter, a minimum of three letters of recommendation (one being from the diagnostic radiology residency program director), a personal statement, and USMLE (or COMLEX) transcripts for Steps 1, 2 CS, and 2 CK. If applicable, the ECFMG certificate should also be submitted 1.

Visa Sponsorship

The program provides visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs), specifically through H-1B and J-1 visa types. This facilitates the participation of genuinely qualified candidates from various backgrounds, promoting diversity and inclusion within the fellowship 1.

Program Competitiveness and Requirements

The Neuroradiology Fellowship is regarded as highly competitive; however, it is also supportive of applicants holding DO or IMG status. A key requirement for applicants is having graduated from an accredited medical school with the necessary clinical training completed. Specific criteria, including maximum failed USMLE STEP exams, may apply but are assessed holistically during the selection process 1.