Harlem Hospital Center Program

The Harlem Hospital Center's General Surgery Residency Program, in affiliation with Columbia Surgery, offers a comprehensive training environment for aspiring surgeons. This prestigious program, known for its long and hallowed history, continues to be at the forefront of surgical innovation and excellence. Its notable achievements include the first pancreaticoduodenectomy performed by Allen O. Whipple in 1935, and more recent advancements such as the first Robot-Assisted Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery and robotic kidney transplants.

The program prides itself on fully preparing its residents for varied career paths, including practice in subspecialties like transplantation, cardiovascular surgery, and surgical oncology, among others. The program emphasizes a diverse and collegial learning environment, promoting camaraderie between residents and faculty. It is distinguished by an operative caseload exceeding the national average, significant senior resident independence, and a flexible approach to elective and research time. Residents will find themselves immersed in a wide array of clinical and basic science opportunities, all located in one of the most vibrant and safest big cities in the country.

Prospective applicants should note the emphasis on a holistic review of applications. Complete applications must include a Curriculum Vitae and Personal Statement, USMLE transcript with passing scores on Step 1 and both parts of Step 2 by Match Day, three Letters of Recommendation (with at least two from Surgery Faculty) and an optional but encouraged Peer Letter of Recommendation, Medical School Transcript, and a Medical Student Performance Evaluation (Dean’s letter). The program also participates in the supplemental ERAS application, which is optional.

Interviews will be conducted virtually, with informal pre-interview virtual social events allowing candidates to gauge the program’s camaraderie. Interview offers will be sent via Thalamus on a specified date, with separate interview dates detailed for various applicant pools including Columbia students.

International Medical Graduates must have current certification by the Educational Committee for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), with US experience preferred but not necessary. While there is no strict medical school graduation date requirement, recent graduates within 1 year of application are preferred. The program sponsors J1 and O visas.

The training facilities are primarily located at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, part of the NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital system, one of the largest and most comprehensive healthcare facilities in the world. This offers residents a chance to work with underserved populations, alongside world leaders in various medical and surgical fields.

Residents are offered a competitive salary, benefits package including housing opportunities, and educational resources like TrueLearn and SCORE subscriptions, among other perks. The program offers a fully funded opportunity for residents to participate in global surgery rotations, promote collaboration on global health initiatives, and encourages a personalized academic development plan during residency, including possibilities for dedicated research time.

The detailed content lends insight into the program's objectives, expectations, and support structures designed to train future surgical leaders. Applicants are encouraged to explore the specific research opportunities, clinical and didactic curriculum, and the global surgery program to understand the comprehensive training offered.