Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV Program

The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV offers a comprehensive Surgical Critical Care Residency Program that spans five clinical years. This program is meticulously designed to enhance residents' skills in diagnostic evaluation, preoperative assessment, intraoperative judgment, surgical techniques, postoperative management, and patient follow-up care. Unique to this program is the opportunity for one categorical resident per cohort to engage in a non-clinical research year, occurring between the second and third postgraduate years, to focus on clinical research methodologies, quality improvement, and clinical trials 1.

The program's primary training institution is the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada (UMC), which is recognized as Nevada's only level-one trauma center, burn center, and transplant center. Residents also rotate at other distinguished facilities, including the Veterans Administration Medical Center, Mike O’Callaghan Military Medical Center, and Sunrise Children’s Hospital. These diverse clinical environments present resident trainees with a myriad of surgical cases, fostering a robust experience in handling the intricate responses of surgical patients to a range of medical challenges 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to ensure a progression in responsibility and expertise at each postgraduate level. The first-year residents (PGY-1) typically rotate through UMC and the VA Medical Center, functioning as integral members of surgical teams. Their duties encompass patient evaluation, treatment planning, and assistance in surgeries, which promote early operative experience 1.

In the second year (PGY-2), residents gain significant operative experience and begin to manage the surgical critical care service while working closely with critical care fellows and attending surgeons. The training intensifies in the third year (PGY-3) as residents assume senior roles in general surgery and trauma care, often being the primary operators in trauma cases 1.

The final two years (PGY-4 and PGY-5) are dedicated to enhanced patient care responsibilities, allowing residents to master complex surgical procedures and take on leadership roles within the surgical teams across various specializations. By graduation, residents are expected to demonstrate maturity and sound judgment, essential for a competent surgical career 1.

Training Sites

The residency provides training across several high-quality sites:

• University Medical Center of Southern Nevada (UMC): A leading institution featuring 564 beds and designated as a Level I Trauma Center.
• Children’s Hospital of Nevada: Located within UMC, it is the only dedicated facility in Nevada for pediatric burn care.
• Las Vegas Veterans Administration Medical Center: A comprehensive facility for veterans offering a diverse range of surgical experiences.
• Mike O'Callaghan Military Medical Center: An Air Force hospital providing access to military surgical practices.
• Sunrise Children's Hospital: Specializes in pediatric surgery, where residents can gain vital pediatric surgical experience.

Resident Life

Living in Las Vegas presents a vibrant experience beyond residency. The city, known for its nightlife and cultural diversity, also offers numerous recreational activities, dining options with world-class chefs, and beautiful outdoor environments for hiking and exploration. This enriching atmosphere supports a well-balanced life as residents train in a high-paced medical environment 1.

Application Process and Competitiveness

Applications to the program require completion through ERAS, including essential documents such as a personal statement, medical school transcript, USMLE Step scores, and letters of recommendation. Notably, applicants must either be U.S. citizens, green card holders, or eligible for a J visa, as the program does not sponsor other visa types. The program is competitive, evaluating candidates based on academic achievements and personal competencies, and only considers USMLE/COMLEX attempts limited to two to ensure candidates are adequately qualified 1.

Visa Support

The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine supports J visa sponsorship for international medical graduates applying to the program. It is essential for prospective applicants to closely review visa eligibility and requirements before applying 1.