University of South Florida Morsani Program

The diagnostic radiology residency program at USF Health offers an extensive and diverse educational experience through various affiliated hospital partners. This program effectively prepares residents for careers in both private practice and academic radiology by providing exposure to multiple clinical settings. Located in Tampa, Florida, the program benefits from a favorable climate that enhances recreational activities for residents during their training periods.

A total of six advanced diagnostic radiology positions and up to six linked PGY-1 positions are available. The program starts its PGY-2 residency on July 1st, with an integrated intern year through the USF internal medicine residency also beginning on July 1st.

Curriculum Overview

The residency is structured into various rotations across notable healthcare facilities. Rotations include Tampa General Hospital, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, James A. Haley VA Hospital, and All Children’s Hospital, providing comprehensive training in diverse subspecialties such as abdominal radiology, neuroradiology, and interventional radiology 1, 14.

Residents engage in a series of didactic lectures, case conferences, and journal clubs to advance their educational experience and ensure well-rounded clinical training. Morning conferences and sessions on physics are incorporated weekly, covering critical topics as outlined by the American Board of Radiology. The program's medical physicist leads interactive physics lectures, further complementing the curriculum 8, 10.

Clinical Rotations

The program's rotations are designed to cover all essential aspects of diagnostic radiology. Major areas of focus include body imaging, emergency radiology, and outpatient imaging. Residents rotate through prestigious institutions allowing them to gather hands-on experience with a comprehensive caseload 1, 14.

Research and Academic Development

Residents are encouraged to participate in clinical research projects with faculty, which typically culminate in presentations at national meetings. Their involvement can be supported through additional leave time and monetary assistance for research-related endeavors 15, 16.

Application Process and Criteria

Applicants to the program should possess a passing score on USMLE Step 1 and are expected to submit applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program requires transcripts, USMLE scores, and three letters of recommendation by a specified deadline, generally falling at the end of September 4, 5. International medical graduates must have U.S. citizenship or a valid J1 visa and must have completed a year of clinical training in an ACGME accredited program.

Visa Sponsorship

The program provides sponsorship for J1 visas and is open to international medical graduates, which indicates a level of inclusivity and support for a diverse applicant pool.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The diagnostic radiology residency is highly competitive. Successful applicants often have USMLE Step 2 CK scores of 230 or greater and rank in the upper half of their graduating class. The program values integrity, a strong work ethic, and interpersonal skills among prospective candidates 1, 4.

Call Schedule and Work-Life Balance

Residents typically participate in a night float system with designated rotations that allow them to maintain a decent work-life balance. Additionally, weekend coverage is rotated among residents, promoting teamwork and efficient call management 3.

Salary and Benefits

Residents benefit from a competitive salary structure that is reviewed annually, along with comprehensive health insurance coverage, accrued annual leave, and educational reimbursement for relevant resources and courses 13. The affordable cost of living in Florida further encourages resident well-being.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program emphasizes academic engagement through structured learning opportunities like monthly resident conferences focusing on case reviews and resident-driven presentations. By cultivating an environment that prioritizes education and feedback from peers and faculty, residents can thrive in this supportive atmosphere 12. The mentorship from experienced faculty, introduction to research, and chances to lead in academic settings are distinct advantages of this residency.