Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Program

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.