The Good Samaritan University Hospital/St. Catherine of Siena Hospital Program in General Surgery is ACGME accredited and dedicated to shaping exemplary surgeons through comprehensive training. The program's mission is to provide surgical residents with exceptional education in an environment driven by integrity, compassion, excellence, respect, and accountability, fostering the development of future leaders and researchers in the field of general surgery.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum includes a variety of educational experiences across multiple clinical settings. Surgical training occurs primarily at St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, which has been serving the Smithtown area for over 50 years. Here, residents engage in diverse rotations involving general, vascular, breast, thoracic, and head and neck surgeries, ensuring a well-rounded surgical education.
Residents’ Rotations
Residents rotate through various esteemed institutions, including:
- Catholic Health/St. Catherine of Siena Hospital
- Catholic Health/St. Joseph Hospital
- Catholic Health/Good Samaritan University Hospital
- Montefiore Medical Center-Henry and Lucy Moses Division
- Stony Brook University Hospital
Training Environment
The program places a significant emphasis on hands-on surgical skills, outpatient services, and the pre-operative and post-operative care of patients. Residents receive a structured weekly schedule that incorporates elements of surgical theory, skills lab training, and participation in surgical grand rounds and journal clubs, enhancing both knowledge and collaborative learning.
Research Opportunities
While there is no dedicated research block, scholarly activity is emphasized and residents are encouraged to engage in research projects throughout their training. The faculty is composed of leaders in the surgical field, offering residents ample opportunities to conduct and contribute to innovative surgical research, often leading to publication in reputable medical journals.
Example Research Contributions
Recent research undertaken by faculty and residents has covered topics such as:
- Analyzing outcomes in non-penetrating trauma
- Utilizing Andexanet Alfa for Factor Xa inhibitor reversal
- Innovative surgical techniques in managing complex gastrointestinal cases
Salary and Benefits
The program offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package:
- PGY 1: $77,500
- PGY 2: $79,500
- PGY 3: $82,500
- PGY 4: $87,500
- PGY 5: $89,500
- PGY 6: $91,500
Additional stipends include housing ($3,500), meals ($3,000), cell phone ($500), and uniform costs ($500). Each resident also has an annual CME stipend that increases with each year of training, providing resources for professional development.
Inclusivity and Culture
The program actively promotes a culture of inclusivity regarding race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, and sexual orientation. The diversity of the residency cohort fosters a better understanding of the unique human experience in healthcare and enhances the patient care approach, ensuring culturally competent treatment.
Application Process and Competitiveness
The application process accepts foreign graduates, with support for J-1 visa sponsorship. A complete application typically consists of the ERAS application, official transcripts, two recommendation letters, and a Dean's letter. The program is considered competitive, attracting applicants from both MD and DO backgrounds.
Special Application Requirements
Noteworthy points for applicants include:
- Consideration of foreign graduates is welcomed
- Visa support is provided for J-1 visas
- USMLE Step 2 must be completed before the ERAS closing date for empathetic evaluation
Final Considerations
The Good Samaritan University Hospital/St. Catherine of Siena Hospital Program offers a rich educational environment marked by commitment to surgical excellence, a supportive community, a comprehensive curriculum, and strong emphasis on research and personal development. This makes it an exceptional choice for aspiring surgeons.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,500First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
12 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Smithtown, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Smithtown, NY
Smithtown, NY, is a suburban town on Long Island known for its charming small-town feel and proximity to both New York City and the Hamptons. Here is a breakdown of living in this location:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Smithtown is considered a safe area with a low crime rate, making it a great place for families and individuals alike.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Caleb Smith State Park or visiting local wineries. Smithtown also has a vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants.
- Climate: Smithtown experiences all four seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Residents get to enjoy the beauty of New York changing seasons.
- Races and Population: The population of Smithtown is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities creating a rich cultural tapestry.
- Education: Smithtown is known for its excellent public schools, making it an attractive location for families with children.
- Cost of Living: While the cost of living in Smithtown is higher than the national average, it is lower than living in New York City, offering a balance between suburban comfort and accessibility to the city.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Smithtown is approximately 1.5 hours by car from New York City, allowing residents to easily access all the amenities and opportunities the city provides.
Pros: Safe environment, proximity to New York City, excellent schools.
Cons: Higher cost of living compared to some other areas.
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