The Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency program at Madigan Army Medical Center is a highly esteemed military program located in Tacoma, Washington. This program offers a comprehensive and rigorous training experience designed to cultivate the next generation of Army otolaryngologists who are not only technically proficient but also compassionate leaders within the military medical community.
Program Overview
This five-year residency is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and welcomes a total of 10 residents, with two positions available each year. All educational prerequisites must be fulfilled through medical school graduation, and a categorical position is required in the specialty. However, the program does not offer a dedicated research year, and applicants should be aware of the competitive nature of the program, which is generally supportive of both U.S. MDs and DOs, as well as IMGs (International Medical Graduates).
Curriculum and Training Experience
The curriculum at Madigan is designed to provide residents with a well-rounded educational experience through various clinical rotations. The first year (PGY-1) includes a broad clinical overview with rotations in multiple surgical disciplines, including six blocks focused on otolaryngology and additional blocks in plastic surgery, general surgery, and emergency medicine. As residents progress to their second and subsequent years (PGY-2 to PGY-5), they engage in increasing levels of independence and complexity in surgical procedures.
Residents gain exposure to both inpatient and outpatient services, and opportunities for external rotations in prestigious institutions like the University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital further enhance their training. Throughout the five years, the program emphasizes didactic learning, including daily reports and grand rounds, supplemented by various specialty conferences.
Clinical Rotations
Throughout the five years, residents rotate through various clinical environments, including:
- Madigan Army Medical Center
- Mary Bridge Children's and Tacoma General Hospitals
- Swedish and Harborview Medical Centers
- Virginia Mason Medical Center
This diversity ensures a thorough exposure to different cases and conditions prevalent in otolaryngology, bolstered by collaboration with world-renowned faculty.
Research Opportunities
The program places significant emphasis on scholarly activity, requiring residents to participate in various research projects, submit manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals, and present findings at regional and national otolaryngology meetings. Each resident must complete three dedicated research blocks (one-month each) throughout their training, allowing ample time to engage in meaningful research endeavors.
Application Process and Requirements
Prospective residents are encouraged to perform rotations before the application cycle and should meet specified requirements, including appropriate performance levels during clinical settings. Notably, there are no specific limits on failure rates for STEP exams mentioned. Comprehensive preparation for the board examination is integrated into the curriculum, with residents taking the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery’s exam after graduation.
Additionally, the program supports visa sponsorships, with the option to sponsor H-1B visas for eligible international medical graduates.
Commitment to Wellbeing
The program recognizes the importance of resident wellness and has structured opportunities for work-life balance, including regular non-clinical activities, sports, and annual retreats. The culture encourages self-care, family interactions, and academic excellence.
Faculty and Mentorship
Residents have access to diverse faculty mentors across all subspecialties within otolaryngology. After the initial six months of training, residents select faculty mentorship for guidance in navigating the rigors of residency while planning for their future careers.
In summary, Madigan Army Medical Center's Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency program not only delivers a robust academic and clinical training experience but also emphasizes holistic development through mentorship, research, and commitment to wellness.
Website
Director
Douglas S Ruhl, MD, MSPHMadigan Otolaryngology-HNS Residency Program Director; Otology & Neurotology, CCC, PEC Appointed Since April 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$92,000First Year Paid Vacation:
21 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Tacoma, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Tacoma, WA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Tacoma has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, but the downtown area has seen improvements in recent years. It's advisable to pay attention to your surroundings, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Tacoma offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports. The city is also home to museums, art galleries, and theaters. Nearby Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Climate: Tacoma has a mild climate with wet winters and dry summers. Expect some rain throughout the year, but temperatures are relatively moderate.
- Races and Population: Tacoma is a diverse city with a population that includes Caucasians, Hispanic/Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans.
- Education: Tacoma is home to the University of Washington Tacoma campus and several other higher education institutions. The city values education, and there are opportunities for both learning and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tacoma is relatively lower than Seattle, but housing costs have been rising in recent years. It's still more affordable than many other major cities on the West Coast.
- Nearest Bigger Cities: Seattle is about 30 miles north of Tacoma, and the driving time can vary depending on traffic but typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Seattle offers a bigger city experience with more job opportunities, cultural events, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, proximity to outdoor activities, diverse population, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate, potential for rainy weather, rising housing costs.
Interview Questions
