University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program

The Neuroradiology Fellowship at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine is designed to provide a comprehensive and sophisticated learning experience for fellows in the field of diagnostic neuroradiology. This program emphasizes patient-centric and trainee-focused approaches, aiming to enhance both clinical skills and scholarly development. The curriculum encourages excellence in interpretative, procedural, and non-interpretative competencies essential for the practice of neuroradiology.

The fellowship boasts a balanced structure, preparing fellows to produce timely, well-articulated reports while effectively collaborating within a multidisciplinary healthcare team. The affiliation with New Mexico's only Level 1 trauma center and a large cancer center provides unique exposure to a wide variety of medical and surgical cases. The program also supports significant opportunities to engage with advanced neuroimaging techniques, including spectroscopy, CT and MR perfusion, fMRI, and vessel wall imaging, along with performing various spinal procedures.

Clinical Training and Rotations

Fellows’ training includes longitudinal exposure to a diverse range of imaging examinations such as adult and pediatric studies, vascular imaging, and specialized advanced imaging like diffusion tensor imaging and tractography. Daily responsibilities encompass performing spinal punctures, myelograms, and other diagnostic modalities, while procedural experience is enhanced through collaborations with interventional radiology specialists. Rotations include scheduled half-day sessions for advanced procedures, such as spinal biopsies, steroid injections, and nerve blocks.

Fellow Education and Conferences

Education is a cornerstone of the fellowship experience. Weekly, fellows engage in 1-2 hours of formal educational activities, including case conferences, journal clubs, and didactic lectures that align with the curriculum of the American Society of Neuroradiology and the American Board of Radiology. Additionally, fellows are active participants in interdisciplinary conferences and tumor boards, with expectations to educate radiology residents by contributing to case discussions and presenting lectures.

Call Requirements and Support

Call responsibilities are structured to ensure a manageable workload. Diagnostic neuroradiology service weekend call is assigned every sixth week, primarily with daytime hours. Opportunities for moonlighting are available, allowing fellows to engage in external clinical responsibilities with prior approval. Notably, fellows do not encounter overnight call assignments for the diagnostic neuroradiology service, ensuring time for rest and educational focus.

Training Locations

Fellowship training predominantly occurs at the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, known for its comprehensive healthcare facilities and diverse patient population. Additionally, fellows spend one day per week at the Sandoval Regional Medical Center, enhancing exposure across various clinical settings and patient demographics.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is known for being open to international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides visa sponsorship, specifically for those qualifying for J-1 or H-1B visas. With a supportive atmosphere for both DO and IMG applicants, the program remains a competitive choice for candidates aiming to enhance their training in neuroradiology.

Application Requirements

While specific eligibility criteria may vary, applicants typically must be graduates from an ACGME-accredited Diagnostic Radiology program, demonstrate board eligibility, and possess licensure eligibility in the State of New Mexico. The fellowship is characterized by rigorous standards, but it also fosters inclusivity regarding applicants' backgrounds.