The Department of Radiation Medicine at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell offers a structured and individualized four-year residency training program in Radiation Oncology. The program is designed to nurture and inspire the careers of future leaders in academic and clinical settings, preparing residents to enter either academic or private practice. An emphasis is placed on promoting fluency in various research domains, including clinical, translational, basic science, public health policy, and health economics research through trainee-initiated investigations, leveraging resources, faculty expertise, and the patient population at Northwell Health 1.
Founded in 2011, the program matriculated its first class of residents in 2012 and has consistently maintained accreditation, currently supporting a cohort of eight residents. Doximity rankings reflect its national standing, recognized as the 24th best residency program in the country, 7th in the Northeast, and 2nd within New York State as of 2020 1.
Curriculum and Training
The residency program is particularly distinguished by its vast training opportunities. Residents gain access to all major radiation therapy technologies, including TruBeam, Gamma Knife Icon, intraoperative radiation, and proton therapy. The program also boasts a high case volume, ensuring a diverse clinical experience that includes on-site pediatric oncology training. Furthermore, the robust brachytherapy program has been recognized as a host site for the American Brachytherapy Society’s Prostate Brachytherapy Training Program. The department also provides a CAMPEP-accredited residency training program in medical physics, adding a unique dimension to the educational experience 1.
Residents are actively encouraged to engage in research projects, receiving generous support for attending scientific meetings and dedicating time for research activities in collaboration with noted clinicians and scientists at Northwell Health as well as affiliated research institutes 1.
Application Process and Requirements
Prospective trainees may apply to the residency program directly through a third-party application service. All applicants are required to submit key documentation such as a curriculum vitae, personal statements, medical or dental school diplomas, and at least three letters of recommendation. Letters should reflect the applicants' qualifications and be written by individuals familiar with their work 3.
Specific requirements include the necessity of a Dean’s letter, official transcripts of all applicable examinations (USMLE, COMLEX, etc.), and for graduates of international medical schools, an ECFMG certificate. There are no specified limits on failed examinations 3.
Visa Support
The program is supportive of international candidates and can sponsor visas, including J-1 and H-1B classifications. Therefore, international medical graduates (IMGs) can find a welcoming and accommodating environment within the program, making it competitive yet friendly towards applicants from diverse backgrounds 4.
Resident Life and Wellbeing
Life as a resident in this program encompasses rigorous medical training complemented by a supportive system aimed at fostering wellness. Residents engage in various community-building activities that enhance social connectedness, which is particularly important during the challenging residency period. Social events such as trivia nights and book clubs are organized by various resident associations 5.
The Northwell Health system prioritizes wellness through numerous initiatives aimed at maintaining trainee well-being. Confidential counseling services and dedicated wellness programs are available to address both mental health and professional challenges 5.
Benefits and Compensation
Northwell Health offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package to its residents. Key components of this package include health insurance, retirement savings plans with employer matching, generous paid time off (including holidays), and opportunities for professional development. Additionally, residents receive support for research and attendance at scientific meetings 4.
Residents also enjoy other perks, such as meal allowances, uniforms, and laundry services, which enhance the overall training experience 4.
Website
Director
Rajiv Sharma, MDProgram Director, Assistant Professor of Radiation Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Appointed Since September 2012Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$80,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1, F1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1700430A0
2024
2 of 22023
2 of 22022
2 of 22021
2 of 22020
2 of 21700430R0
2020
0 of 1Location
Lake Success, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Lake Success, NY
- Location: Lake Success is a small village in Nassau County, New York. It offers a suburban feel, and it's situated close to New York City, providing easy access to all the amenities and opportunities of a major city.
- Crime Rate and Safety: Lake Success is known for being a safe area with low crime rates. Residents enjoy a sense of security and peace.
- Fun Activities: The proximity to New York City means endless entertainment options, from dining to cultural events. Lake Success itself offers parks and recreational activities.
- Climate: Lake Success experiences the typical four seasons of the Northeast, with cold winters and warm summers. Residents enjoy seeing the changing colors of fall foliage.
- Races and Population: Lake Success has a diverse population, with residents from various cultural backgrounds.
- Education: The area is known for its quality schools, with options for all education levels.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Lake Success is relatively high, reflecting the affluent nature of the area.
- Nearby Cities: New York City is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Lake Success, offering unlimited opportunities for work, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Safe environment, proximity to NYC, excellent schools, diverse population.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion for commuters to NYC.
Interview Questions
