Hospital Episcopal San Lucas/Ponce School of Medicine Program
Location:
Ponce, PRSpecialty:
Obstetrics and gynecologyACGME Code:
2204221346NRMP Program Code:
2101220C0Program Overview
The Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program at Hospital Episcopal San Lucas/Ponce School of Medicine offers a comprehensive training experience aimed at preparing residents to become proficient and compassionate physicians. The program is structured to deliver a deep understanding of women's health, emphasizing both clinical skills and research capabilities.
Curriculum
The curriculum spans four years, starting with the first-year orientation and foundational training in obstetrics and gynecology principles. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring that residents gain exposure to various medical and surgical conditions related to women’s health.
In the subsequent years, residents participate in core rotations including:
- Obstetrics
- Gynecology
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Gynecologic Oncology
Each rotation is designed to enhance clinical knowledge, develop technical skills, and support professional development through mentorship with experienced faculty members.
Rotations
The program includes rotations at various training sites including community hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized medical centers. This diversity in training environments allows residents to encounter patients from different backgrounds, enhancing their cultural sensitivity and adaptability.
Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to engage in research throughout their training. The program supports various research initiatives that aim to advance women's health, with opportunities to collaborate with faculty on published studies. The research component includes presentations at local and national conferences, promoting academic growth and networking with experts in the field.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the standout features of this residency program is its commitment to bilingual education, preparing residents to serve the diverse patient population of Puerto Rico and the US Hispanic community effectively. Additionally, the program emphasizes community service and outreach, encouraging residents to participate in health education and preventive care activities outside clinical settings.
Training Sites
Training takes place at Hospital Episcopal San Lucas, among other facilities, which provide comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care. This ensures that residents are well-acquainted with a variety of medical conditions and treatments pertinent to women's health.
Visa Support
The residency program provides visa support for international medical graduates. The program typically offers sponsorship for J-1 visas. This aspect enhances access to a broader pool of applicants from diverse backgrounds, contributing to a rich learning environment.
Competitiveness & Application Requirements
The program is known to be highly competitive, with a limited number of slots available annually. It is friendly toward both DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) and IMG (International Medical Graduates) candidates. The program requires applicants to meet specific criteria:
- Graduation from an accredited medical school
- A USMLE Step 1 score minimum
- Proficiency in both English and Spanish
Applicants should not have exceeded a limited number of attempts on any of the USMLE Step exams, emphasizing the program's commitment to academic proficiency and readiness for the challenges of residency.
Conclusion
The Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Hospital Episcopal San Lucas/Ponce School of Medicine is highly regarded for its comprehensive training, strong emphasis on research, and dedication to serving diverse communities. The unique curriculum and exposure to multiple training environments make this program an excellent choice for those seeking a fulfilling career in obstetrics and gynecology.
Website
Director
Yolanda E Gonzalez Zamora, MDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$35,400First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
18 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
200Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Ponce, PR
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Ponce, Puerto Rico
- Location: Ponce is located in the southern part of Puerto Rico, known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture.
- Climate: Ponce has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Population and Races: The population of Ponce is diverse, with a mix of different races and cultures adding to the city's unique atmosphere.
- Safety: Ponce is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
- Education: Ponce is home to several universities and educational institutions, providing opportunities for further academic pursuits.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Ponce is moderate compared to larger cities, which can be a benefit for residents.
- Fun Activities: Ponce offers a variety of cultural events, museums, beaches, and outdoor activities for residents to enjoy in their free time.
- Nearest Bigger City: San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico, is approximately 1.5 hours away by car. San Juan offers a bustling metropolitan area with shopping, dining, and nightlife options.
- Pros: Rich cultural heritage, pleasant tropical climate, lower cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Cons: Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, occasional traffic congestion.
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