Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The integrated Vascular Surgery Residency program at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center offers graduated, incremental training in both vascular and endovascular surgery, culminating in certification in vascular surgery by the American Board of Surgery. This comprehensive program begins immediately after medical school and includes core requirements in general surgery. Each year, a single categorical five-year position is available, alongside an additional dedicated academic year dedicated to health services/outcomes research and the opportunity to earn a master's degree at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (TDI). Thus, the residency is notably designed not only to produce clinically competent vascular surgeons but also to foster academic leaders within the field 1.

The training curriculum is robust, providing progressive clinical experiences while integrating all elements of open and endovascular surgical techniques. The program adheres to the guidelines set forth by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and assigns clinical, operative, and administrative responsibilities to trainees that grow throughout the residency period. The fifth clinical year serves as a chief residency experience, ensuring that graduates possess the requisite skills to function independently as highly skilled vascular surgeons 1.

Program Structure

Training exposes residents to a wide spectrum of patients, with substantial case volume and complexity. The residency program includes comprehensive training in catheter-based procedures, open surgery, and inpatient/outpatient care. Residents perform a variety of procedures, including peripheral, renal, and carotid interventions, and benefit from hands-on experiences using up-to-date technologies and techniques. The integration of dedicated vascular laboratory instruction further enriches education, including opportunities to become proficient in duplex scanning 1.

Educational Conferences

Every Monday, the program hosts an extensive teaching conference during protected time from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. Conferences cover a wide array of topics, such as grand rounds, technical skills sessions, case discussions, morbidity and mortality conferences, and research seminars. This format is designed to facilitate active resident involvement in decision-making and the teaching process 1.

Research Opportunities

One of the program's unique features is the dedicated year for research and academic development positioned between the third and fourth years of clinical training. This opportunity allows residents to acquire foundational research skills and engage in various research projects within the vascular surgery section or in collaboration with the wider Dartmouth academic community. Completing a Master of Science degree at TDI during this time further enhances their research acumen and professional development 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program is committed to promoting diversity within the field of vascular surgery. It actively recruits underrepresented minorities and aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all residents and fellows. This dedication aligns with the broader goals of Dartmouth Health's mission focusing on diversity, equity, and belonging 1.

Application Process

Applicants are required to apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and register with the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP). A personal interview is mandatory, and all candidates must fulfill specific requirements. Notably, applicants must have passing scores on USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 and Step 2. The program welcomes graduates from both MD and DO backgrounds, making it relatively friendly towards candidates from various medical school types, including international medical graduates (IMGs) 6.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international applicants, primarily focusing on J-1 visa type for residents. This confirms the program's recognition of the diverse contributions that international medical graduates bring to the field of vascular surgery while ensuring compliance with educational requirements 1.

Living in the Upper Valley

The residency is located in the picturesque Upper Connecticut River Valley, featuring a rich array of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. The vibrant community and natural beauty of the area significantly enhance the residency experience, supporting a balanced lifestyle conducive to both personal and professional growth 6.