The Geisinger Urology Residency Program is dedicated to producing exemplary surgeons who are compassionate and committed to patient care. This is a small program designed to allow personalized training, with only two residents accepted each year. The program provides an integrated training environment, geared towards a diverse patient population hailing from central and northeastern Pennsylvania. This exposure equips residents with extensive hands-on experience in a wide range of urologic cases and prepares them for various career paths, whether in private practice or academia 1.
The residency spans five years and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The curriculum is designed not only to meet ACGME standards but to exceed them, resulting in a program that boasts above-average graduate outcomes, including a 100% board passage rate and high success in placing residents in competitive fellowship positions. Faculty training encompasses various urologic subspecialties including oncology, minimally invasive surgery, endourology, and pediatric urology 1.
Program Structure
The program's structure is based on progressive responsibility, culminating during the chief year. This intentional design, where residents gradually take on more complex cases and responsibilities, contributes to their personal and professional development. The clinical experience is underscored by a broad educational curriculum, focusing on various surgical techniques such as robotic surgery and endourological procedures, among others 1.
Training Locations
The primary training site is the Geisinger Medical Center located in Danville, PA. Here, residents engage in rotations across multiple disciplines like ambulatory urology, oncology, reconstruction, and pediatric urology. Senior residents also have the opportunity to rotate at the Geisinger Healthplex Centerpoint in Pittston, PA, where they can experience outpatient procedures in a continuity clinic setting. The structured clinical exposure ensures that residents achieve comprehensive competence in urology 1.
Didactic Curriculum
The didactic curriculum is robust and includes multiple conferences such as journal clubs, quality improvement discussions, multidisciplinary GU tumor boards, as well as surgical simulation sessions that deal with suturing and robotic systems. Care is taken to ensure that residents not only hone their surgical skills but also engage in ongoing education to keep current with advancements in urology 1.
Research Opportunities
Research is also a cornerstone of the Geisinger Urology Residency Program, allowing residents to collaborate on multiple scholarly articles and studies which cover diverse topics from cancer treatments to cost-effectiveness in urology. Given the program's commitment to academic excellence, residents are encouraged to participate actively in ongoing research initiatives 1.
Community and Lifestyle
Living in Danville, PA, offers a balanced lifestyle with convenient access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and boating. The area's low cost of living and accessibility to major urban centers like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., further enhance the attractiveness of the location for residents and their families 1.
Visa Support
The Geisinger Urology Residency Program provides support for international medical graduates seeking residency positions in the United States. The program sponsors J-1 visas, making it accessible for IMG applicants who meet the program's selection criteria. This focus on inclusivity illustrates the program's commitment to fostering a diverse and talented resident cohort 1.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The residency program is highly competitive, reflecting a commitment to recruiting top-tier candidates. Applicants must submit a transcript, USMLE scores, and three letters of recommendation as part of their application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program has no maximum limit for failed STEP exams, which could be advantageous for some applicants. However, they generally expect candidates who meet or exceed standard performance metrics on their examinations 1.
Website
Director
Matthew Meissner, MDResidency Program Director, Department of Urology Appointed Since July 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
65hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$65,603First Year Paid Vacation:
11 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
4 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.9XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Danville, PA 17821
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Danville, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Danville has a low crime rate compared to national averages, making it a relatively safe community to live in.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities in nearby state parks, visit local museums like the Thomas Beaver Free Library, and attend community events throughout the year.
- Climate: Danville experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Residents get to enjoy the beauty of fall foliage.
- Races and Population: The population in Danville is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities contributing to a vibrant community.
- Education: Danville is home to reputable schools and the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, providing educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Danville is relatively affordable compared to larger cities, making it an attractive place for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Danville is approximately 2 hours away from Philadelphia by car, providing access to a major city for additional amenities and entertainment.
- Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, affordable cost of living, and access to outdoor activities.
- Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options within the town itself.
Interview Questions
