Attending Introduction

Rotation Description
During your Radiology clinical rotation with FMG Portal, the rotation is designed to help you understand the role of radiology in patient care and develop foundational imaging interpretation skills.
Additionally, your performance during this rotation will lead to obtaining a US LOR, which is essential for your upcoming residency program applications.
1. Orientation & Introduction to Radiology
- Overview of imaging modalities (X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy, Nuclear Medicine)
- Introduction to PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System)
- Understanding radiation safety and appropriate imaging indications
2. Image Interpretation & Case-Based Learning
- Observing radiologists as they interpret outpatient imaging studies
- Learning how to systematically approach imaging studies (e.g., chest X-ray, brain MRI, abdominal CT)
- Reviewing key cases with attendings or residents
- Discussing differentials and clinical correlations
3. Observing Procedures
- Exposure to outpatient interventional radiology (IR) procedures, such as:
- Ultrasound-guided biopsies
- Joint injections
- Drain placements
- Image-guided pain management procedures
- Learning procedural indications, risks, and benefits
4. Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration & Clinic Exposure
- Attending imaging review sessions with referring physicians (e.g., neurologists, orthopedic surgeons)
- Understanding how radiologists provide consults and impact patient management
- Observing how imaging findings guide outpatient treatment plans
5. Self-Directed Learning & Conferences
- Participating in radiology lectures or case-based conferences
- Reviewing ACR Appropriateness Criteria for imaging studies
- Engaging in online modules or reading recommended radiology textbooks
6. Final Presentation or Assessment (Varies by Program)
- Some rotations require students to present an interesting case
- Basic assessments on recognizing common imaging findings
Key Takeaways from an Outpatient Radiology Rotation
- Understanding imaging’s role in outpatient medicine
- Developing basic image interpretation skills
- Gaining exposure to interventional radiology procedures
- Appreciating the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in diagnosis and treatment
Typical Activities/Procedures
- Systematic Approach to Image Interpretation – Learning structured methods to analyze X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds.
- Understanding Imaging Modalities – Recognizing when to use different imaging techniques based on patient presentation.
- Radiation Safety & Dose Considerations – Understanding ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles and risks of ionizing radiation.
- Recognizing Common Pathologies – Identifying fractures, pneumonia, stroke, tumors, and other key findings.
- Indications for Imaging Studies – Learning appropriate imaging choices using guidelines like ACR Appropriateness Criteria.
- Interventional Radiology Exposure – Observing minimally invasive procedures such as biopsies, joint injections, and drain placements.
- Communication with Referring Physicians – Understanding how radiologists provide consults and communicate findings effectively.
- Importance of Multidisciplinary Collaboration – Seeing how radiology integrates with other specialties (neurology, surgery, oncology, etc.).
- Basic PACS & Workflow Familiarity – Navigating Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and workflow in a radiology department.
- Developing Clinical Correlation Skills – Linking imaging findings with patient symptoms, lab results, and history to enhance diagnostic accuracy.
Letter of Recommendation
LORs are on the official clinic letterhead. You may also ask the attending to include hospital affiliations on your LOR, and you can also mention them on your CV and Personal Statement.
Location & Schedule
*Exact address provided once signed up.
*Rotation is a minimum of 20hrs/week.
*Schedules change often and we recommend speaking with the office manager to have the most updated daily scheduling.