Good Samaritan University Hospital/St. Catherine of Siena Hospital Program

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.