Medical Genetics Residency Program Overview
The Medical Genetics Residency at Children’s National Hospital is a robust two-year training program dedicated to medical genetics. The program consists of 18 months of clinical and laboratory-based training, complemented by six months dedicated to research projects. This structure ensures that residents receive a balanced education that is both practical and academic.
1Applicants are required to have completed at least one year in an ACGME-accredited training program, with preference given to those who have a complete residency in an ACGME-accredited program. This residency is particularly competitive and seeks candidates who demonstrate strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to the field.
1Training Focus and Curriculum
The residency is situated within one of the largest medical genetics and metabolic centers in the United States. As a NORD Center of Excellence, the program is staffed by 12 board-certified medical geneticists, eight of whom have received biochemical training, along with 13 genetic counselors and other specialists. This multi-disciplinary setup fosters comprehensive training and enhances the learning environment for residents.
1The curriculum emphasizes various diagnosis-based clinics, including but not limited to:
- Neurofibromatosis clinic
- Craniofacial clinic
- Skeletal dysplasia clinic
- Disorders of sexual development clinic
- Metabolic clinic
Clinical Rotations and Research Opportunities
Residents will gain exposure in both outpatient and inpatient settings throughout the training. The outpatient experience primarily occurs at the new clinic within the Rare Disease Institute, adjacent to the Research and Innovation Campus. In the inpatient environment, residents will handle consults in both the tertiary care neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) located at Children’s National, as well as the adult delivery hospital situated next door.
1The structure allows for comprehensive neonatal consults, which are paramount in genetics training. The program's strategic location as the only free-standing children’s hospital in the District of Columbia also attracts a diverse range of genetic and metabolic diagnoses, presenting unique learning experiences.
1Research Participation
Research is an integral aspect of the residency, with one of the six months of training specifically assigned to this pursuit. The program collaborates with various research initiatives, including those with the National Institutes of Health. Participants are encouraged to engage in research projects right from the start of their training.
1Visa Support and Competitiveness
The Medical Genetics Residency program is friendly towards International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and offers visa sponsorship options, specifically for those requiring J-1 or H-1B visas. This support is essential for fostering a diverse cohort of residents from various backgrounds.
1Unique Aspects of the Program
Children’s National Hospital is well-known for its advocacy opportunities, especially for participants interested in rare diseases. The location in Washington, D.C., allows residents to not only engage in medical training but also to participate in advocacy initiatives that can impact public health policies.
1Application Requirements
Prospective candidates must submit their applications with comprehensive details indicating their background and prior training experience. The program requires that international applicants have completed steps I and II of the USMLE prior to application. Candidates who have a maximum of two failed attempts at the USMLE are considered. This threshold ensures a commitment to excellence among applicants.
1Quality of Life
Living and training in Washington, D.C., provides residents at Children’s National with a unique quality of life. The capital city offers access to numerous cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities, further enriching the residency experience.
1Website
Director
Debra S Regier, MD, PhDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2019Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
