Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The General Surgery Residency program at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center delivers a robust and comprehensive educational experience focusing on the training of competent and compassionate surgeons. With a commitment to excellence, the program operates under a mission to enhance both surgical skills and patient care through an environment that emphasizes humility, integrity, and lifelong learning.

Program Objectives

The program aims to cultivate surgeons who are technically proficient, advocate for underserved populations, and prioritize evidence-based medicine. A strong emphasis is placed on nurturing individuals to become leaders in healthcare, capable of conducting meaningful research that contributes to improved patient outcomes while recognizing the importance of personal well-being in providing patient care.

Rotation Overview

The residency spans five years and includes a mixture of hands-on clinical training at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, and affiliated hospitals such as Concord Hospital and the Veteran's Administration Medical Center. The curriculum is designed to support residents during their clinical years with structured rotations encompassing various surgical specialties:

• First Year: Includes foundational rotations such as General Surgery, Trauma Surgery, and Intensive Care.
• Second Year: Focuses on advanced skills with exposure to minimally invasive surgery and additional trauma care.
• Third Year: Offers subspecialty experiences in areas like Pediatric Surgery and Surgical Oncology.
• Fourth and Fifth Years: Senior residents take on more complex cases, leading inpatient services and participating in elective rotations tailored to their career ambitions.

Residents are encouraged to participate actively in clinical research, with flexible options for non-clinical time devoted to career development, evidenced by their significant representation in published medical literature and peer-reviewed articles.

Research Opportunities

While research years are recommended but not required, they provide a pathway for residents to engage in significant projects that can lead to a Master's degree in public health or healthcare delivery. Residents are also presented with opportunities to engage in various research fields, including clinical and basic science, enhancing their professional profiles and preparing them for competitive fellowship placements after graduation.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion within its residency training. There is a commitment to creating a fitting and equitable environment for residents, fostering innovative practices and promoting a sense of belonging within the surgical community.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process entails submission via ERAS and requires the following documentation:

• Completed ERAS application form
• Medical school dean’s letter
• Three letters of recommendation
• USMLE scores (no minimum required)
• ECFMG certification for international graduates

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcome, provided they hold valid ECFMG certification and possess relevant clinical experience acquired within the last three years. The program sponsors J1 visas only. Additionally, candidates must have graduated from medical school within the last three years to be considered.

Training Sites

The primary training site is the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, a busy academic medical center with over 450 beds and a commitment to providing advanced quaternary care. They also utilize community hospitals across the region, allowing residents to experience various patient populations, including marginalized communities and veterans.

Resident Experience

Residents within the program express high satisfaction levels due to the program's supportive culture, which prioritizes work-life balance, mentorship opportunities, and active engagement in community activities. Educational meetings, didactics, and hands-on simulation training are supplemented with personality development programs, fostering a well-rounded residency experience that emphasizes clinical excellence and personal growth.