The Madigan Army Medical Center Urology Residency Program is a five-year training initiative designed to cultivate accomplished Urologists, emphasizing both military and civilian healthcare practices. This program uniquely positions its residents to provide medical services to military personnel, their families, and other community members.
Program Overview
Located in Tacoma, WA, the program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and aims to produce Urologists of the highest caliber. The residency focuses on merging clinic-based education with extensive operative exposure in both military and civilian settings. This multifaceted approach allows graduates to adeptly address a spectrum of Urological diseases and injuries.
The mission of the program emphasizes leadership, clinical expertise, and surgical proficiency, with the vision of producing military officers who will excel in delivering exceptional urologic care within the Military Health System (MHS). The program articulates clear aims to develop leaders in Urology, cultivate research-oriented physicians, and nurture lifelong learners among its residents.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum includes a comprehensive didactic component, featuring sessions such as preoperative case presentations, journal clubs, pathology conferences, and military-specific education that addresses unique deployment situations. Notably, the program incorporates a quarterly military-oriented curriculum aimed at enhancing leadership skills and preparing residents for their roles as military officers.
Residents engage actively with simulation training, which includes robotic surgical training as well as live tissue models for minimally invasive procedures. Every week, dedicated sessions for leadership skills enhancement are integrated into the training schedule.
Rotations and Research Opportunities
The residency offers limited rotations to 3rd and 4th-year medical students, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in various urological procedures while participating in didactic sessions. These rotations last between two to four weeks, culminating with interviews for aspiring 4th-year applicants.
A robust scholarly component allows residents to engage in research projects, with mandatory submissions to the annual tri-service Urology meeting and contributions to various quality improvement initiatives concerning Urological care. Graduates are required to complete a significant research project for graduation.
Training Sites
Residency training primarily occurs at the Madigan Army Medical Center, with additional clinical experiences at notable institutions such as Harborview Medical Center, Seattle Children’s Medical Center, Multicare Health System, and Virginia Mason Hospital. This array of locations provides residents with exposure to a diverse patient population and varying clinical scenarios.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is particularly supportive of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and provides visa sponsorship for J-1 visas. This inclusivity enhances diversity within the residency, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Moreover, the Urology Residency Program is considered competitive, drawing applicants who excel academically as well as those who demonstrate a commitment to military service and leadership.
Special Application Requirements
Applicants must meet specific criteria which may include a maximum number of failed Step exams and year of graduation from medical school. Prospective residents should familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure eligibility.
Well-Being and Professional Development
The program prioritizes the well-being of its residents, offering monthly mental resilience sessions and opportunities for recreational activities alongside faculty. Mentorship is a cornerstone of the residency, with each resident being paired with a faculty mentor to guide them throughout their training.
Conclusion
The Madigan Army Medical Center Urology Residency Program offers a unique and comprehensive training experience tailored to meet the demands of modern Urology in both military and civilian contexts. With a focus on leadership, scholarly work, and professional development, residents are well equipped to become leaders in the field.
Website
Director
Ryan W Speir, MD, MPHDirector, Urology Residency Program; Urologic Oncologist Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
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-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.
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