University of Miami/Jackson Health System Program

The University of Miami/Jackson Health System Program in Nuclear Medicine offers an extensive and well-structured residency and fellowship training tailored to developing proficient nuclear medicine and molecular imaging physicians. The program thrives on its mission to prepare graduates for a dynamic career in nuclear medicine, including facets of diagnostic molecular imaging and advanced radiotherapeutics.

Located within the Jackson Health System, the program benefits from access to exceptional medical facilities, including Jackson Memorial Hospital, which is recognized as Miami’s only safety net and tertiary care hospital. This designation provides residents with opportunities to engage in diverse clinical experiences that are not typically encountered in standard training programs.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is architected to ensure exposure across various essential areas, including both fundamental and advanced practices within nuclear medicine. It comprises a three-year residency path for candidates who have completed a one-year internship in an ACGME-accredited program; alternatively, candidates with prior internal medicine training may complete a shorter two-year residency.

Yearly Structure

During Year 1, residents will participate in a foundational education program that includes:

• Basic Science Educational Program
• Didactic Lecture Series
• Journal Club attendance
• Rotational experience in Radiopharmacy
• Engagement in Diagnostic Radiology rotations with CT exposure

This year includes approximately six and a half months at Jackson Memorial Hospital, two and a half months at the UHealth Tower, and a month dedicated to vacation.

In Year 2, the program maintains a similar structure with enhanced focus on hands-on experience within the field:

• Involvement in advanced Didactic Lecture Series and Journal Club
• Additional Diagnostic Radiology rotations

The breakdown for this year includes four and a half months at both Jackson Memorial Hospital and UHealth Tower, alongside scheduled vacation time.

Year 3 secures the continuation of educational and clinical practices while ensuring candidates meet board eligibility requirements through extensive case exposure.

Research and Clinical Experience

As part of the training environment, the program fosters unique research opportunities by collaborating closely with faculty who possess dual radiology and nuclear medicine board certifications. The program’s association with the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, South Florida’s only NCI-designated cancer facility, further enhances research potential and patient care delivery.1

Application Process and Requirements

Application procedures are facilitated through the Electronic Residency Application System, with submissions accepted from July 1 to January 31. Interviews are conducted based on applicant availability throughout this period. Candidates are required to complete the USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Step 2 CS prior to program acceptance. While the program does not maintain a specific score threshold, candidates who pass all examinations on their first attempt may receive priority in interviews.1

For residency applications, a one-year internship in an ACGME-accredited program is mandatory. Applicants with prior completed residency in internal medicine may apply for a two-year training option. Fellowship applicants need to have completed a residency in radiology that is ACGME-accredited.1

Visa Sponsorship

The program sponsors the J1 visa through the Alien Physician Program for residents and fellows who require visa support. This facilitates international applicants seeking to pursue their medical training in the United States.

Competitive Landscape

The University of Miami/Jackson Health System's Nuclear Medicine Program is competitive but remains friendly toward DO and IMG applicants. Candidates with comprehensive applications and robust clinical backgrounds are encouraged to apply, noting that preference may be given to those meeting certain academic criteria.

Unique Clinical Exposure

Residents will confront diverse scenarios as Jackson Memorial Hospital hosts a Level I trauma center, a busy transplant center, as well as a prominent pediatric hospital. These features ensure that training is enriched through a multitude of clinical exposures that prepare residents for expertise across extensive medical challenges.

The program's location in Miami also promises residents a vibrant lifestyle, filled with cultural experiences that enhance personal enjoyment during their training years.