Breast Imaging Fellowship
Vanderbilt offers a one-year, clinically-based fellowship for sub-specialized training in breast imaging. Clinical training is a priority, with ample opportunity to develop screening and diagnostic skills in a fast-paced environment that also focuses on quality of patient care. The fellowship training incorporates all aspects of breast imaging, including:
- Screening and diagnostic mammography
- Breast ultrasound, including ultrasound-guided procedures
- Breast MRI and MRI-guided biopsies
- Stereotactic-guided interventions
- Magseed localizations
- Tomosynthesis and tomosynthesis-guided procedures
Vanderbilt has a designated multidisciplinary breast center that serves a large population throughout middle Tennessee. We perform more than 31,000 screening and diagnostic mammograms annually and have a dedicated breast MRI magnet on site. The breast radiologists work in collaboration with the breast surgeons, plastic surgeons, medical and surgical oncologists and pathologists to provide comprehensive patient care. This collaborative and collegial environment gives fellows a broad-based education with exposure to all facets of breast health management. Daily responsibilities include rotations in diagnostic and screening mammography, breast MRI and image-guided procedures.
In addition to the core responsibilities, the fellowship incorporates a multidisciplinary curriculum with short rotations in breast surgery, oncology, genetics, plastics and pathology. Up to six weeks of elective time is also available and can be tailored to meet the needs of the individual. In the past, fellows have used this time for dedicated research projects or short rotations in other sections within the department. This time can be taken in blocks or distributed throughout the year. A small amount of time is spent in ultrasound to maintain proficiency for on-call responsibilities.
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Thank you for your interest in the Vanderbilt University Medical Center Breast Imaging Fellowship. We are participating in the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) Fellowship Match Program through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). To apply, potential fellows must register with the Radiology Match (Breast imaging). We will follow the timeline posted on the SBI website.
All fellowship interviews will be virtual. Please reach out to the fellowship team if you have any questions. We look forward to receiving your application.
Please send all documents (including application, CV, personal statement, medical school transcripts, USMLE Transcript, three recommendation letters) to:
Jodi Solem
Breast Imaging Fellowship Program
Department of Radiology & Radiological Sciences
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
1161 21st Ave. South
Medical Center North
Suite CCC-1118
Nashville, TN 37232-2675
Email: radfellows@vumc.orgUnfortunately we are unable to accept applicants with J1 or H1B visas at this time.
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Fellowship trainees have a primary appointment with GME and a secondary appointment as a Clinical Instructor within the Department of Radiology.
As a non-accredited (ACGME) fellowship, there is an opportunity to develop increasing responsibilities and independence. In addition, there is a generous benefit package with a book/meeting allowance and a 403b retirement plan.
In-house moonlighting is an option, though not required, and can be advantageous to maintain skills in other subspecialty areas.
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Our fellows are actively involved in multiple educational conferences throughout the year. These include a weekly multidisciplinary tumor board conference and a monthly didactic session with the breast imaging faculty. Fellows also participate in quarterly Journal Club and MMI conferences. In addition, the fellows are encouraged to give at least one lecture on breast imaging for the radiology residents.
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Our trainees participate in the Ultrasound Call pool which involves weekend coverage of the ER and inpatient ultrasounds approximately six to seven times during the year and on one holiday.
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Joseph Hoang, MD
Danielle Shah, MD
Heather Stefek, MD
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In addition to clinical responsibilities, fellows are encouraged to pursue research interests during their training. We are fortunate to have a strong collaboration with the Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Sciences. In addition, there are numerous opportunities for clinical investigation and quality improvement projects. Fellows also contribute to resident and medical student education by participating with section faculty in noon conference lectures and daily teaching during the routine clinical work flow.
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Multispecialty Electives
Our optional elective program is fully integrated with the other subspecialties within the department of radiology. Our fellows can spend up to six weeks rotating in the following sections:
- General Outpatient Imaging (including fluoroscopic procedures if desired)
- Musculoskeletal Radiology
- Neuroradiology
- Abdominal Imaging
- Pediatric Radiology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Cardiothoracic Radiology
The rotations are scheduled in one-week blocks which are distributed throughout the year. They are flexible and designed to meet the needs of the fellows to maintain skills in general radiology in preparation for private practice.
Moonlighting
Optional in-house moonlighting opportunities alongside Vanderbilt Radiology Nighthawk faculty and on-call residents in the ED in 5 to 10 p.m. swing shifts.
