The Mini-Fellowship in Advanced MRI Imaging is an elite, post-credentialing program designed for doctors who have completed MRI Credentialing and are seeking advanced expertise in MRI spine interpretation and neuroradiology. Administered through the Academy of Chiropractic, this hybrid program combines structured online education with intensive one-on-one live training. Participants work directly with Patricia Roche, DO, CAQ (Radiology, Neuroradiology), Associate Professor of Radiology at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Stony Brook School of Medicine, ensuring training grounded in academic excellence and real-world clinical application. This advanced MRI fellowship supports chiropractors nationwide who are committed to delivering evidence-based spine care and improving diagnostic accuracy in their communities.
Dr. Roche brings exceptional credentials and academic authority to this program. She has presented to medical students, fellows, and national professional societies, including the American Osteopathic College of Radiology, establishing her as a respected leader in neuroradiology education. Her unique understanding of the chiropractic profession—having grown up in a chiropractic family and worked in her father’s office for many years—allows her to bridge the gap between medical radiology and chiropractic clinical practice. This rare perspective enhances interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthens doctors’ credibility when communicating with radiologists, surgeons, and medical providers.
This comprehensive three-part Mini-Fellowship includes 8 hours of personalized live MRI training and awards 42 chiropractic continuing education credits. Credits are recognized by the State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Office of Continuing Medical Education, Cleveland University–Kansas City College of Chiropractic, and PACE (Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards). Designed for chiropractors seeking advanced MRI certification and higher-level neuroradiology competence, this program elevates clinical authority, strengthens documentation standards, and enhances professional standing within local healthcare markets.
Part 1: Advanced MRI Research & Clinical Foundations (24 Hours)
The program begins with 24 hours of structured, evidence-based research focused on advanced spinal MRI interpretation and pathology correlation. Candidates conduct an in-depth review of disc pathology and pain generators, spinal cord pathology related to compressive etiologies—including cord edema, myelomalacia, and myelopathy—neural sheath compressive pathology, annular tears and fissures, asymptomatic herniations, and related spinal abnormalities. Emphasis is placed on understanding clinical relevance, imaging morphology, and diagnostic differentiation using contemporary radiologic nomenclature.
Participants are required to critically analyze 15 peer-reviewed contemporary research articles covering MRI physics, sequencing protocols, utilization standards, intradural and extradural pathology, disc morphology, congenital anomalies, and advanced spinal anatomy. To ensure mastery—not passive exposure—candidates must successfully complete 15 examinations tied directly to these research topics. This rigorous academic component establishes a strong scientific foundation and reinforces defensible, evidence-based diagnostic interpretation.
Part 2: Live-Online MRI Image Interpretation & Expert Review (8 Hours)
In this immersive clinical phase, candidates participate in 8 hours of live, case-based MRI analysis under the direct supervision of Patricia Roche, DO, CAQ (Radiology, Neuroradiology). During this hands-on session, participants review 60+ MRI sequences encompassing more than 2,500 images, identifying multi-level disc anatomy, dural structures, and associated pathology using precise, contemporary reporting standards.
This real-time mentorship experience strengthens diagnostic accuracy, improves pattern recognition, and refines clinical correlation between imaging findings and patient presentation. Candidates are required to identify both normal and pathological findings, apply current terminology, and demonstrate competency in structured MRI reporting. This phase bridges the gap between research knowledge and real-world clinical application.
Part 3: Published Case Report & Peer Review (10 Hours)
The final phase requires candidates to author and publish an original case report through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) MedPix portal, demonstrating how MRI findings materially impacted diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment planning in clinical practice. The manuscript must include diagnostic images, appropriate scholarly references, and structured clinical documentation consistent with contemporary academic standards.
Each submission undergoes peer review through the State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Family Medicine. Candidates must serve as the primary author and follow formal publication guidelines. A structured template is available through the Academy of Chiropractic to guide formatting and submission requirements.
Completion of this phase establishes documented clinical expertise, academic contribution, and professional authority—reinforcing advanced competency in MRI interpretation and evidence-based spinal diagnostics.
Fee: $3,000