Training the Leaders of Tomorrow in Interventional Radiology

The FIU/Baptist Health Integrated Interventional Radiology Residency builds on nearly 40 years of excellence in training interventional radiologists. Based in FIU’s Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and centered at Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, residents learn from nationally recognized innovators, educators and investigators in one of the nation’s premier heart and vascular programs.

Following a preliminary year, the five-year integrated curriculum provides comprehensive education in diagnostic and interventional radiology. Residents develop expertise in image interpretation across all major subspecialties while gaining early procedural experience before advancing to increasingly autonomous clinical and procedural training that covers the full spectrum of contemporary vascular and interventional radiology.

A defining strength of the program is its collaborative environment, with close partnerships among interventional radiology, vascular surgery, cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery and Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute. Exceptional procedural volume, diverse patient populations, research opportunities and personalized mentorship prepare graduates for leadership roles in academic medicine, private practice, research and health care administration nationwide.

Program Leadership

Where you will train

Baptist Hospital

Baptist Hospital of Miami, the flagship of Baptist Health with over 900 beds, is a nationally recognized destination for advanced cancer, heart, and neuroscience care, offering leading-edge technology, multidisciplinary expertise, and the distinction of being Florida’s first and only six-time Magnet® Hospital for Nursing Excellence.

Doctor’s Hospital

Located in historic Coral Gables, Doctors Hospital has provided high-quality medical care since its opening in 1949.

Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute

For over 35 years, the Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute has been a local and national leader in vascular and cardiovascular care.

South Miami Hospital

For more than 65 years, Baptist Health South Miami Hospital has provided trusted, advanced care to southern Miami-Dade County with 24/7 emergency services, specialty expertise in heart, lung, spine, and bariatrics, leading-edge procedures and diagnostics, and comprehensive family care including a Level III NICU and maternity services.

Curriculum

Our curriculum combines core diagnostic radiology training, intensive care experience and imaging interpretation in the early years with advanced interventional radiology training, increasing procedural autonomy and longitudinal patient care in the final years.

  • PGY2 - PGY4
    • Core diagnostic radiology training
    • Introduction to interventional radiology procedures
    • Medical/surgical ICU training
    • Imaging interpretation across all modalities
  • PGY5 - PGY6 (IR-Focused Years)
    • Dedicated IR training with increasing autonomy
    • Advanced endovascular, oncologic, and venous interventions
    • IR clinic and longitudinal patient care

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How important are Step scores for Integrated IR applicants?

    Step scores are one part of a holistic review. Integrated Interventional Radiology (IR) is highly competitive, strong Step 2 performance can strengthen an application, but scores are considered alongside academic performance, letters of recommendation, research, leadership, and demonstrated commitment to Interventional Radiology.

  • Is there a minimum Step score required?

    We do not use a strict cutoff. Strong clinical performance, meaningful research, outstanding letters, and mentor advocacy can help strengthen an application. Applicants should seek guidance from mentors to assess competitiveness and develop a balanced application strategy.

    For those committed to IR, alternative pathways such as Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology and Independent IR residency remain excellent options.

  • How important are research, leadership and community service?

    All three are considered, but quality matters more than quantity. Research—particularly in IR or radiology—demonstrates commitment to the specialty and is viewed favorably. Leadership roles reflect initiative and professionalism, while meaningful community service provides insight into character and values.

    We look for sustained involvement and genuine impact rather than a long list of short-term activities.

  • Who should write my letters of recommendation?

    At least one letter should come from an interventional radiologist who knows you well and can speak to your clinical abilities, work ethic and fit for the specialty. Letters from diagnostic radiologists or physicians in related specialties are also valuable.

  • Are non-radiology letters acceptable?

    Yes. A detailed, personalized letter from a faculty member who knows you well is often more helpful than a generic letter from someone with limited interaction. Most applicants submit three to four letters, with at least one—and ideally two—from radiology or IR faculty.

  • How does signaling affect interview decisions?

    Program signals are an important part of the review process and help identify applicants with strong interest in our program. A gold signal is viewed favorably, but signals alone do not guarantee an interview. Applications are reviewed holistically.

  • How should applicants use their signals?

    Use all available signals and reserve gold signals for programs that align with both your interests and overall competitiveness. Focus on programs where you can see yourself training and building your future career.

  • How are geographic preferences and “most meaningful experiences” viewed?

    Geographic preferences provide context but are not required. Applicants with broad flexibility may prefer selecting “no preference.”

    The “most meaningful experiences” section offers valuable insight into your priorities, growth and motivations. Thoughtful, authentic responses can help us better understand your journey and goals.

  • Does the program require a supplemental application?

    Yes. Applicants are asked to submit a brief statement discussing Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, the International Symposium on Endovascular Therapy, Clinical Interventional Oncology and Spectrum meetings, and how these opportunities align with their training goals and future career aspirations.

  • What should applicants expect during the interview process?

    In accordance with Association of Program Directors in Interventional Radiology recommendations, interviews are primarily conducted in person, giving applicants the opportunity to experience our clinical environment and meet faculty and residents. A limited number of virtual interviews may be available upon request.

    Interview day includes a facility tour, participation in conference activities and dedicated time with Diagnostic Radiology and Interventional Radiology residents. Faculty interviews are conducted individually in a one-on-one format, allowing applicants to learn more about the program while sharing their experiences and career goals.

Program Application Requirements

Our program attracts, educates, and retains exceptional talent to serve the South Florida community.

Acceptance/admission to the program is contingent on the submission of all requested materials and meeting all eligibility requirements determined by the program.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Residency Prerequisites

  • PGY1 Intern year in medicine, surgery or transitional
  • Eligibility for medical licensure in Florida
  • USMLE/COMLEX completion

Application Requirements

  • Medical degree from an accredited institution
  • Strong academic record
  • Demonstrated interest in interventional radiology
  • Letters of recommendation (including IR if available)
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A Transformative Education

At the FIU Medicine, your journey is enhanced by research, innovation and community outreach. Our programs empower the next generation of physicians with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to become leaders in the healthcare field.

Learn about our Graduate Medical Education

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Life in South Florida 

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No matter your mood, Miami always has something fun and exciting to do!

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Get in Touch with Us

Are you interested in learning more about our residency and fellowship programs? Fill out the form below and get connected with one of our program coordinators.