Visiting Observer Training Program

The AIRP Visiting Observer Training Program allows international medical graduates to update and enhance their knowledge in a medical specialty while learning about the U.S. medical education and health care delivery system.

Observerships are conducted at the ACR Institute for Radiologic Pathology (AIRP), various hospitals, and related clinics. These facilities are located in Washington, DC, area. Accepted observers spend three months on rotation. Four weeks of the rotation will be spent in lectures at the AIRP radiologic-pathology correlation course under the direction of a faculty mentor in the designated body section.

After completing the four-week course, applicants are embedded in an academic patient-care team of faculty, residents and medical students, giving observers a close-up view of patient care and the medical education process. Observers study radiologic images and procedures and participate in conferences with their team.

Due to U.S. medical licensing laws, observers are not permitted any direct physical contact and may not perform patient services. By participating in all other daily activities, AIRP observers can acquire an array of new experiences, including seeing the latest advances in medical technology and radiologic interpretation.

Observerships are available in neuroradiology (including CT and MRI) and in musculoskeletal imaging.

How to Apply

Please complete the form below (including exact dates of when you would be interested in observing) and email the required documents to us — see the eligibility requirements section for complete details. The appropriate section chief, physician in chief, and the AIRP director will review your application.

Please contact AIRPSupport@acr.org for more information.

Fill out my online form.

Available Observership Dates

The dates listed below are in conjunction with the four-week radiologic-pathologic correlation course.

Academic Year 2022–2023

    
July 25 - August 19, 2022
   Virtual 
September 12 - October 7, 2022
   In-person 
October 17 - November 11, 2022
   Virtual 
February 6 - March 3, 2023
   Virtual
March 13 - April 7, 2023
   In-person

Eligibility and Application Requirements

Non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents must submit the form above and email all required documents to AIRPSupport@acr.org.

We will begin to process your application once the following materials are received:

  • A statement outlining your area of interest and observership goals
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Copy of medical degree
  • Medical school transcript
  
  • Copies of USMLE scores (optional)
  • Two letters of recommendations
  • Proof of health insurance while in the U.S.
  • Negative PPD test or chest X-ray within 12 months of planned observership

Once we receive all documents, application review may take 4–5 weeks. Additional materials may be required. Failure to submit all required materials requested may jeopardize your eligibility.

Proficiency in English is imperative to receive full benefits of the program. A virtual interview may be required by the section chief.

In addition, applicants are responsible for obtaining a visa to enter the U.S.

Costs

The cost to participate in the AIRP Visiting Observer Program is USD 4,000. This fee covers:

  • Mentoring and training at the AIRP.
  • The cost of the four-week rad-path correlation course.
  • Access to the AIRP case archive.
  • Use of office space and computer.

Payment is due no later than 90 days prior to the start of the observership.