The Art and Science of Radiology

Program Director Dr. Erin Gomez discusses her approach to leading the radiology residency program at Johns Hopkins University

At Johns Hopkins, where tradition seamlessly blends with innovation, Dr. Erin Gomez, the Program Director of the Diagnostic Radiology Residency, has crafted a unique approach to training the next generation of radiologists. Her leadership is rooted in a profound commitment to both the technical and human aspects of radiology. Central to her vision is a deep passion for MRI physics—a subject she has not only mastered but also taught with dedication.

For Dr. Gomez, understanding the physics behind imaging is more than just a requirement for passing exams; it is the cornerstone of clinical excellence. “You can’t be the head of an imaging center or the director of a private practice if you don’t understand imaging physics,” she explains. She views it as an essential skill that empowers radiologists to troubleshoot at the workstation, ensure high image quality, and ultimately deliver superior patient care.

Core Physics Review has become a cornerstone of this educational framework. As an alumna of the course, Dr. Gomez reflects on how it provided her with the confidence and clarity needed to tackle the Core Exam’s physics portion. “I felt so much better after the Final Review. I thought to myself, ‘This is it; I’m going to pass the physics portion of the exam,’” she recalls. The course’s ability to distill complex concepts into accessible and practical knowledge has left a lasting impact on her career.

As Program Director, Dr. Gomez has integrated Core Physics Review into the residency curriculum, valuing its expanded offerings, including on-demand content. This evolution aligns with her teaching philosophy, which balances traditional methods with modern, flexible learning approaches. “It’s incredibly forward-thinking of Core Physics Review to broaden its Final Review offerings, now including on-demand micro-lectures,” Dr. Gomez notes. She recognizes that today’s residents thrive when given the flexibility to study at their own pace, in formats that resonate with their learning preferences—whether through interactive modules, videos, or structured live courses.

Feedback from her residents underscores the significant impact of Core Physics Review. They consistently regard the course as an indispensable resource that not only prepares them for the Core Exam but also deepens their understanding of the physics that underpin their everyday work. “Every year, we ask if they want to continue with Core Physics Review, and hands down, our residents say, ‘This was the thing that helped me get through that part of the Core Exam,’” Dr. Gomez reflects. For many, it’s a vital part of their education, helping them build the confidence to tackle complex cases and challenging scenarios.

In Dr. Gomez’s vision, the goal is to cultivate radiologists who are not only proficient but also prepared to lead in their fields. Core Physics Review aligns seamlessly with this goal by providing residents with the foundational knowledge and practical skills they need to excel, both in their exams and throughout their careers. “My goal is that Hopkins graduates can take on the nightmare cases and be the go-to person because they have a strong foundation,” she says.

The collaboration between the Johns Hopkins Radiology Residency Program and Core Physics Review reflects Dr. Gomez’s broader commitment to educational excellence. By combining rigorous training with adaptable learning opportunities, Dr. Gomez ensures that her residents are not just well-prepared to meet the demands of the field but are also poised to emerge as leaders in their own right.