Brown University Program

The surgery residency program at Brown University offers a comprehensive and diverse training experience that leads to eligibility for certification by the American Board of Surgery. This program provides a broad exposure to general surgery components and surgical subspecialties through rotations at Rhode Island Hospital, The Miriam Hospital, and Providence Veterans Administration Medical Center.

The program includes seven categorical residents and up to eight preliminary interns accepted annually for one year of education in general surgery before entering various surgical subspecialty programs. The primary goal is to produce skilled clinical and academic surgeons trained in all aspects of modern general surgery, such as gastrointestinal tract, breast, head and neck surgery, vascular surgery, trauma, pediatric surgery, transplant surgery, and surgical nutrition.

Residents have a rich operative experience with a diverse range of surgical diseases due to the well-rounded hospital system. The surgical program also offers two tracks for categorical residents: one focusing on academic surgical careers with basic science research opportunities and a clinical track for a five-year completion of the program.

The application process for categorical residency positions involves submission through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by October 1st. For preliminary residency positions, applications should be submitted by December 1st with specific requirements such as ERAS application form, personal statement, USMLE score report, dean's letter, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.

International applicants must meet certain criteria, including graduation within the past five years, a minimum USMLE score, and clinical experience in the United States, among others. The program also supports J-1 clinical visas for foreign medical graduates.

Residents can participate in academic conferences, mock oral examinations, and a robust academic conference schedule focused on surgical knowledge advancement. Residents benefit from extensive academic resources, including membership to the SCORE portal for supplemental educational content and assessment.

The Department of Surgery at Brown University emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning, offering various resources to help residents engage in educational activities at different training levels. The program also provides opportunities for specialized rotations and unique international electives, such as the Armand D. Versaci Research Scholar in Surgical Sciences Award and Trauma Training Grant.

The surgical residents also benefit from the guidance of experienced faculty members in diverse settings, including formal teaching conferences, divisional services, and grand rounds. Furthermore, the program emphasizes continuous assessment through the use of general surgery milestones and offers a range of benefits, including competitive stipends, vacation time, and health insurance options.

Overall, the Brown University Surgery Residency Program provides a well-rounded educational experience designed to produce skilled and knowledgeable clinical and academic surgeons.