Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

Overview of the Independent Interventional Radiology Program

The Independent Interventional Radiology Program at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, part of the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is designed for diagnostic radiology residents who are seeking to specialize in interventional radiology. This two-year program is intended for those who have completed a diagnostic radiology residency without an Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR) year. The program accepts up to four applicants each year from the Independent IR match, allowing for a diverse cohort of residents to be trained in this essential subspecialty.

Curriculum Structure

Residents in the Independent IR program will participate in intensive training, completing over 1,000 procedures annually. The curriculum is complemented by structured IR-specific conferences, which include quality and safety sessions every other Tuesday morning, IR didactics every Wednesday morning, hepatobiliary rounds every Thursday morning, and a mixture of case discussions, journal clubs, and interventional oncology meetings every Friday morning. This rigorous academic schedule ensures that residents are well-prepared and knowledgeable in all aspects of interventional radiology practice 1.

Key Rotations and Experience

Training in the Independent Interventional Radiology Program is conducted across several key facilities, enhancing the breadth of exposure residents receive. In addition to hands-on procedural training in interventional radiology, residents may have opportunities to engage in various clinical settings, which assists in the development of both technical skills and clinical judgment 4.

Research Opportunities

Scholarly activity is mandated for all residents, offering numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful research. Residents can collaborate with faculty members on projects that range from retrospective studies of the patient population to NIH-funded multi-institutional randomized controlled trials. This active involvement in research not only aids in meeting training requirements but also enhances residents' readiness for both academic and private practice careers once they graduate 4.

Application Requirements

To apply to the Independent IR program, candidates are required to have completed a four-year diagnostic radiology residency. The program is open to both ESIR and non-ESIR candidates. Applicants must hold a valid Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certificate if they graduated from a non-U.S. or Canadian medical school and must be able to document one year of clinical experience in an ACGME-accredited program prior to starting their training 4.

Competitive Nature of the Program

The Independent Interventional Radiology Program is considered to be highly competitive. Candidates typically require a strong academic performance throughout their medical education and clinical training. Success in obtaining a position in the program may be influenced by the applicant’s clinical experience, letters of recommendation, and interview performance 3.

Visa Support

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. This facilitates the ability of qualified candidates to participate in the program, providing an essential pathway for international residents seeking advanced training in interventional radiology within the United States. Candidates should ensure that they meet all the necessary requirements for visa application and sponsorship 4.

Living and Working in St. Louis

St. Louis is known for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Residents are encouraged to engage with the local community during their training, providing them with a well-rounded residency experience. The Mallinckrodt Institute fosters a supportive and collaborative environment that is conducive to both personal and professional development 2.