Penn Radiology Visiting Observers Program

Radiology Visiting Observers Program: Questions and Answers

What is Penn Radiology's definition of a visiting observer so that I can be sure this is the right training for me?

A Penn Radiology enrichment/observation experience is defined, for purposes of this policy, as time spent at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) or in the Clinical Practices of the University of Pennsylvania (CPUP), observing patient care, gaining medical knowledge, conducting research, observing or consulting in connection with a research project.

Radiology Enrichment/Observation experiences may be granted on a case-by-case basis to undergraduate, foreign medical student or any individual who has completed formal graduate medical education or training. His/her purpose in spending time within the Department of Radiology is personal enrichment, not provision of service to the Department. Not applicable to CVI.

The exchange of visiting scholars promotes interchange, mutual enrichment, and linkages between research and educational institutions in US and foreign countries. Eligible participants in this program will enter the US with a J-1 visa, identified as “exchange visitors.” Or B-1 visa if they will be observing in a clinical area for a period not to exceed three months.

I am interested in setting up a visit (observership) in one of your departments. What is the procedure?

A number of our divisions accept visiting observers. Please review the list below and find the division that meets your interests. Then complete the Visiting Observership Application and email it to the division contact as specified below. 

Penn Radiology Division Contact Information for Visiting Observers
ABDOMINAL IMAGING DIVISION Email: Sharon Bailey  • Body Computed Tomography (CT)  • Gastrointestinal (GI) Radiology • Gynecological/Urological (GU) Radiology  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)  • Ultrasound
BREAST IMAGING DIVISION Email: Lisa Bell
CARDIOTHORACIC DIVISION Cardiovascular Imaging Section Email: Tracy Jenkins  (Only accepting long term visiting observers who are interested in doing research) Learn about our three-month visiting fellowship. Thoracic Imaging Section Email: Allison O'Callaghan
INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY DIVISION Email: Deepak Sudheendra, MD
MUSCULOSKELETAL RADIOLOGY DIVISION Email: Denia Budhan
NEURORADIOLOGY DIVISION Email: Carol Scott
NUCLEAR MEDICINE AND MOLECULAR IMAGING DIVISION Email: Sandra Carney (Intended for practicing radiologists or nuclear medicine physicians who are interested in gaining additional experience in nuclear medicine)

I am interested in spending time in one of your clinical divisions and I am NOT a U.S. citizen. Where can I obtain more information about visas?

University of Pennsylvania Criteria:
http://global.upenn.edu/isss/scholar_dept

U.S. Government Criteria:
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/temp_1305.html

How much health coverage is required?

• Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
• Repatriation of remains in the amount of $7,500
• Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $10,000
• A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness

What immunization records (proof of immunization) must I have?

• Immunization records for Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella (chicken pox)
• Proof of PPD test for Tuberculosis with negative results within 3 months
• Visitors between September and March must submit to an influenza vaccine upon arrival.

What housing options are available?

EXTENDED STAY APARTMENTS

• AKA University City (close to campus)
  2929 Walnut Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-372-9000
• Club Quarters in Philadelphia (use UPENN as the promo code)
  1628 Chestnut Street (At 17th Street)
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103
  Phone: (+1) 215-282-5000
  Fax: (+1) 215-282-5001
• The Franklin Residences
  834 Chestnut Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
  Phone: (+1) 215-629-9900
  Toll Free: (+1) 866-567-6263
• Homewood Suites by Hilton University City (on campus)
  4109 Walnut Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-382-1111

PROPERTIES ON CAMPUS

• The Axis
  20 South 36th Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-662-0802
• International House
  3701 Chestnut Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-895-6540 (day), (+1) 215-387-5125 (evening)

HOTELS ON (or near) CAMPUS:

• AKA University City (close to campus)
  2929 Walnut Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-372-9000
• The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel (on campus)
  3600 Sansom Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-222-0200
  Fax: (+1) 215-222-4600
• Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel (on campus)
  3549 Chestnut Street
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  Phone: (+1) 215-387-8000

Where should I report on my first observation day?

Prior to arrival, you should make direct arrangements with the division you will be observing in and identify a first-time meeting location.

I understand I must wear a photo ID at all times. What is the procedure to obtain one?

You will obtain a completed form from the division or section you are visiting. You will be directed to an appropriate security office where IDs are taken. The ID will expire on your last scheduled day of your visitorship.