IR Residency Pathways & Getting In! (Part 2)

In this episode, interventional radiologist Dr. Sahil Mehta, integrated DR/IR resident Dr. Elias Farah, and our host Dr. Aaron Fritts continue the BackTable Trainee Series by discussing how they each discovered the field of interventional radiology (IR), recent trends in the IR match process, and the importance of raising awareness of the IR specialty.

With the recent shift towards integrated IR residencies, medical students now have the opportunity to experience a mix of diagnostic and interventional radiology training from PGY-2 through PGY-4, and then dedicate time to IR training during PGY-5 and PGY-6.

As a recent IR applicant and now a resident, Dr. Farah walks us through his process of applying to residency. He outlines the steps that he took to prepare and the number of programs that he applied to. We also address the fact that IR has grown to be one of the most competitive specialties to match into. Dr. Mehta emphasizes that applicants’ average USMLE scores and number of publications have increased in the last few years, so it is important for applicants to demonstrate their genuine interest in the field and be prepared to speak about this during the interview.

The doctors close by discussing why increased awareness of IR can benefit both providers and patients. They highlight organizations that advance this mission, including the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and the Interventional Institute.