Corewell Health (Dearborn and Trenton) Program

The General Surgery Residency Program at Corewell Health Trenton Hospital and Corewell Health Dearborn Hospital is a fully accredited, five-year program leading to board certification eligibility. The program utilizes the Score curriculum, designed to provide comprehensive education in general surgery alongside exposure to various surgical sub-specialties. Residents in this program not only participate in patient care but also engage in a structured educational framework consisting of weekly didactic sessions, monthly statewide conferences through Michigan State University, cadaver lab sessions in the second year, skills lab training throughout the statewide campus, and a monthly journal club.

Corewell Health Trenton Hospital is a 193-bed facility and Corewell Health Dearborn Hospital is a larger 632-bed institution, both offering a broad spectrum of medical and surgical services to communities in Southeastern Michigan. These hospitals are both designated as level two trauma centers, ensuring residents gain experience in trauma surgery. Trenton Hospital is affiliated with the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, while Dearborn Hospital collaborates with Wayne State University School of Medicine. The program's accreditation is by the AOA and it has also received initial accreditation from the ACGME.

The residency admits four residents each year through the NRMP as part of the Corewell Health Dearborn/Trenton Campus program. This structured approach allows for a cohesive learning environment where residents can develop their skills incrementally. The program emphasizes exposure to a variety of specialties, including minimally invasive surgery, trauma/acute care surgery, thoracic surgery, vascular surgery, plastic and hand surgery, breast surgery, bariatric surgery, colorectal surgery, pediatric surgery, and surgical critical care. In addition, all residents complete certifications in Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), Basic Life Support/Advanced Cardiac Life Support (BLS/ACLS), Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS), and Fundamentals of Endoscopic Surgery (FES).

Clinical Rotations and Curriculum

The curriculum of the General Surgery Residency is meticulously crafted to ensure comprehensive training across all key aspects of surgery. Residents participate in rotations that span various surgical specialties, allowing them to gain substantial operative and clinical experience. The residency is structured to gradually increase resident autonomy as they progress through their training years, ensuring that they are well-prepared for independent practice upon completion.

Rotations include core surgical specialties, as well as elective opportunities that allow residents to tailor their training to their specific interests. This multifaceted approach provides a wide array of experiences, ensuring residents not only become proficient surgeons but also well-rounded physicians capable of engaging in multidisciplinary care.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral part of the residency program. Residents are encouraged to participate in research initiatives that span various surgical fields. This engagement not only promotes scholarly activity but also allows residents to contribute to advancements in surgical practices and patient care. The program supports residents in presenting their research at national conferences, enhancing their professional development and visibility in the field.

Faculty and Mentorship

The General Surgery Residency at Corewell Health houses a dedicated faculty comprised of experienced surgeons and educators. The faculty members are committed to providing superior mentorship and guidance throughout the residency training. Regular evaluations and feedback mechanisms are in place to help residents assess their progress and identify areas for improvement.

Residents will benefit from one-on-one interactions with faculty, particularly during the operative experience, which fosters a robust learning environment and enhances the educational experience.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the General Surgery Residency Program at Corewell Health requires participation in the NRMP match. Applicants must submit their medical school transcripts, USMLE or COMLEX scores, three letters of recommendation—with at least one from a surgeon—a CV, and a personal statement. Notably, applicants must have no failed attempts at board exams (COMLEX and/or USMLE) to be considered eligible for the program. It is also recommended that interested candidates participate in audition rotations to gain familiarity with the program and its culture.

Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with no paper applications accepted. The program encourages timely submission to ensure consideration for available positions.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program is friendly to international medical graduates and offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. The types of visas that Corewell Health can sponsor include the J-1 and H-1B visas, providing necessary support for foreign graduates seeking residency placements. This inclusivity enhances the program's diversity and enriches the learning environment for all residents.

The General Surgery Residency at Corewell Health is competitive, attracting a diverse pool of highly qualified candidates each year. Prospective applicants are encouraged to demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to the field of surgery, as these factors contribute significantly to the selection process.