Overview of the Surgical Residency Program
The General Surgery Residency Program at Lakeland Regional Health is dedicated to educating, mentoring, and developing proficient general surgeons who can deliver exceptional medical care with compassion and respect. The mission is fulfilled through a clinical and didactic curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and skills development, focusing on preparing graduates for successful careers in community-based or academic surgery, as well as fellowship training.
The program offers a variety of unique training opportunities featuring a diverse clinical experience aligned with a substantial patient population. This residency utilizes the resources of lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, which is a state-designated Level II Trauma Center and recognized for having one of the busiest emergency departments in the country. Residents are afforded the opportunity to collaborate with experienced faculty across various specialties to ensure an unparalleled learning experience.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum for residents is both rigorous and structured. Key elements of the training include extensive clinical rotations across various surgical specialties, a comprehensive series of didactic lectures, and opportunities for research and mentorship.
Clinical Rotations
Residents will experience rotations in diverse areas, including but not limited to:
- General Surgery
- Trauma and Critical Care
- Robotic and Minimal Invasive Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Colorectal Surgery
Each rotation is designed to provide targeted learning objectives that hone the skills required for proficiency in surgical practices. Additionally, the program emphasizes teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration, which enhances patient outcomes.
Didactic Education
Weekly educational conferences and monthly Grand Rounds provide further opportunities for active learning, in-depth discussions with experts, and exposure to the latest research in surgical techniques and patient care. The curriculum includes:
- Morbidity & Mortality Conferences
- Weekly Educational Didactics
- Journal Club to critically assess contemporary surgical literature
- Grand Rounds featuring specialized topics presented by faculty
Research Opportunities
Research is encouraged and supported through the program, with access to a dedicated research team available to assist residents in developing their projects. The focus on scholarly activities complements the hands-on clinical experience, allowing residents to contribute to the surgical field actively.
Program Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Surgical Residency Program at Lakeland Regional Health is competitive, with a strong emphasis on selecting candidates who demonstrate not just academic excellence but also a commitment to delivering patient-centered care. Applicants must have:
- A completed application submitted through the appropriate channels.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- U.S.MLE Scores or COMLEX Scores.
Please note, the program does not currently sponsor employment visas. Therefore, candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Support and Benefits
Residents enjoy a robust benefits package including:
- Meal subsidies when on-call
- Educational stipends for professional development
- Expenses for USMLE Step 3/COMLEX Step 3 fees covered
Visa Support
Currently, the program does not provide sponsorship for employment visas and applicants must already possess authorization to work in the U.S.
Living in Lakeland
Lakeland is strategically located between Tampa and Orlando, offering residents access to vibrant cultural experiences, various dining options, and outdoor recreational activities. The cost of living is reasonable, providing an ideal setting for work-life balance.
Conclusion
The General Surgery Residency Program at Lakeland Regional Health stands out for its commitment to patient-centered learning, diverse clinical exposure, and substantial opportunities for personal and professional growth. It aims to equip future surgeons with not only the technical skills required for surgery but also the compassion necessary for exceptional patient care.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$57,695First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
20 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
210Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Match History
2323440C0
2024
4 of 42023
4 of 42022
4 of 42021
0 of 4Location
Lakeland, FL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Lakeland, FL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Lakeland is considered relatively safe with a moderate crime rate compared to other cities in Florida. It is important to be cautious in certain areas, especially at night.
- Climate: Lakeland enjoys a warm, tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for frequent rain showers in the area.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities in various parks and lakes, visit the historic districts, and explore the unique attractions like the Florida Southern College Architectural District.
- Races and Population: The population of Lakeland is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities contributing to the community's cultural richness.
- Education: Lakeland is home to Florida Southern College and Southeastern University, providing options for higher education and cultural events in the area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Lakeland is lower compared to some of the bigger cities in Florida, making it an affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Lakeland is approximately an hour's drive away from Tampa and Orlando, offering access to big city amenities, entertainment, and job opportunities.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, proximity to major cities.
- Cons: Warm and humid climate, moderate crime rate in certain areas.