Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine Program

The Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine offers a comprehensive General Surgery Residency Program designed to produce well-rounded surgical specialists who are equipped to provide high-quality, evidence-based care across a wide range of surgical conditions. This program is based in Boca Raton and primarily involves extensive clinical exposure across several accredited teaching hospitals.

Program Structure

The General Surgery Residency Program is structured into five clinical years followed by a unique value-added year. Within the residency, there is an emphasis on education and skill development over service demands, underscoring the program's commitment to fostering an academic environment.

Clinical Rotations

Residents will experience a diversified array of rotations across core surgical disciplines throughout their training. The rotations include, but are not limited to, general surgery, trauma and critical care, vascular surgery, plastic, and reconstructive surgery, as well as pediatric, burn, and transplant surgery. First and second-year residents focus primarily on foundational skills in general surgery and its subspecialties, while more senior residents will engage in complex and specialized surgical cases, including elective procedures tailored to their interests.

Teaching Hospitals

The program operates in partnership with multiple teaching hospitals, including:

• **Bethesda Hospital East**: Not-for-profit hospital catering to a diverse patient population.
• **Boca Raton Regional Hospital**: Affords a complete clinical experience in various surgical fields.
• **Delray Medical Center**: Focuses on specialized surgical services with a certification as a Level I trauma center.
• **St. Mary's Medical Center**: Provides comprehensive medical services including pediatric care.
• **West Boca Medical Center**: Known for its community-based acute care and, notably, robotic surgery.
• **University of Florida Health - Shands Hospital**: Offers specialized training in burns and transplant surgery.

Value-Added Year

After successfully completing the third year, residents have the opportunity to engage in a valuable year of scholarship or specialized training tailored to their career aspirations. This could involve focused research, advanced fellowships such as Trauma or Critical Care, or obtaining supplementary degrees in public health or business management, thereby enhancing their competencies in today's evolving healthcare environment.

Curriculum and Courses

The curriculum includes standardized courses to enhance medical knowledge and skills vital for surgical practice. Courses incorporate life-saving protocols, surgical skills training, and preparation for board examinations. Key components include:

• ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)
• ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support)
• SAGES-accredited laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery courses.
• Core curriculum and lectures from experienced surgeons and faculty.

Research and Scholarship

The program has a robust research component where residents are encouraged to engage in scientific inquiry, publish manuscripts, and present findings at national conferences. The Faculty provides mentorship to guide residents in identifying research topics aligned with their interests.

Visa Support

The program supports international medical graduates by sponsoring visa types, including J-1 visas, allowing candidates to complete their residency training in the United States.

Application Requirements

The residency program is competitive and encourages applications from qualified MD and DO graduates. Candidates must provide comprehensive documentation through ERAS, including:

• USMLE or COMLEX scores
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

Additionally, international medical graduates are eligible, provided they have no gaps in their medical education and have completed the USMLE exams successfully.

Competitiveness

The General Surgery Residency at FAU is considered highly competitive, welcoming all qualified MD and DO candidates, and actively supporting international medical graduates with appropriate qualifications.

Alumni Achievements

The program has a strong record of alumni success, including outstanding fellowship match rates and high board pass rates. Graduates have secured prestigious positions across various surgical specialties and institutions, testament to the rigorous training and academic support provided throughout the residency.