Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Program

The Loma Linda University Health Thoracic Surgery Residency Program offers an independent track for training cardiothoracic surgeons within a supportive and mission-driven environment. This program emphasizes the values of compassion, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and wholeness, aligning with the institution's goal to continue the healing and teaching ministry of Jesus Christ.

Program Features

Curriculum and Rotations

Residents are provided with a rigorous and comprehensive education in cardiothoracic surgery, consisting of a traditional three-year program on the cardiac track. Over the training period, the following core rotations are structured:

• Adult Cardiac Surgery: 21 months
• General Thoracic Surgery: 12 months
• Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): 3 months
• Pediatric/Congenital Surgery: While not a formal rotation, fellows actively participate in relevant cases.

Throughout the years, residents enjoy a high volume of hands-on operative experience, performing an extensive range of surgeries including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repairs, and heart transplants 1. Notably, the program ensures that there are no advanced fellows who could compete for educational encounters, thus allowing residents to gain maximum clinical exposure 4.

Research and Academic Environment

The program is committed to fostering a scholarly environment with annual educational stipends allocated for residents. Each resident receives $1,000 per academic year to support educational expenses, which may include attending conferences and purchasing educational materials 5.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Entry into this thoracic surgery residency program is selective and competitive. Applicants must successfully complete an ACGME-accredited surgical residency prior to application, and be in good standing within that program 2. The interview process occurs in two designated sessions held in early March and early April, with invitations issued in late January 2.

Visa Support

The program supports international medical graduates through visa sponsorships. They primarily offer sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing successful applicants to undergo training while fulfilling their educational and professional goals within the United States.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Loma Linda program prides itself on a collegial atmosphere, with easily accessible faculty dedicated to mentoring residents. Faculty members include graduates of the program, which fosters a strong sense of community and continuity in training 3. Moreover, residents report high satisfaction with the autonomy and hands-on experiences available throughout their training, as they are often the primary surgeons in numerous cases 4.

Stipends and Benefits

Residents receive a competitive stipend structure which includes a housing allowance of $5,000 and a meal allowance of $1,500 per year. In addition, a comprehensive medical and dental plan is available, making it easier for residents to manage their health needs 5. Paid time off accumulates at a rate of 240 hours per year, and residents benefit from nine paid holidays as part of the compensation package. Other notable benefits include provisions for long-term disability insurance, additional income opportunities through moonlighting, and reimbursement for educational expenses 5.

Board Pass Rates

The program boasts a remarkable 100% first-time pass rate for board certification by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery among its graduates 2. This success highlights the thorough preparation and high-quality training provided by the Loma Linda Institution.