MaineHealth Program

The General Surgery Residency program at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center is a comprehensive training program that equips residents with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in general surgery as well as prepare for further subspecialty training. The commitment to a superior learning experience is evident in the program's mission and values, which emphasize personal and professional balance, exceptional patient care, and outstanding surgical education.

Curriculum

The residency includes unique rotational experiences in various surgical disciplines with an emphasis on hands-on learning. The curriculum spans five years, starting with foundational training in core surgical specialties, such as elective general surgery, surgical oncology, and trauma surgery.

First Year

Residents embark on core surgical services that build fundamental technical skills while managing various peri-operative conditions. The first year consists of rotations spanning elective and emergency general surgery, surgical oncology, colorectal surgery, and bariatrics. First-year residents also serve as chief on the burn service, gaining significant operative experience and floor management skills.

Second Year

As they progress into their second year, residents continue on core services and have additional exposure to subspecialty rotations, including vascular surgery, breast surgery, and thoracic surgery, allowing for broader surgical exposure.

Third Year

In their third year, residents assume more responsibility, functioning as senior residents on services such as pediatric surgery and trauma, and refining leadership and organizational skills.

Fourth Year

In the fourth year, residents revisit previous rotations with enhanced skills and knowledge, leading larger surgical services and engaging with community rotations to broaden healthcare understanding.

Fifth Year

The chief year caps the residency experience, characterized by significant leadership, clinical excellence, and educational engagement. Chief residents manage core surgical services, engage in the year-long Chief Clinic, and participate in subspecialty rotations.

Rotations

The program offers a variety of major surgical services, each designed to maximize operative experience:

• Emergency General Surgery: Managing patients with urgent surgical needs.
• Elective General Surgery: Addressing non-emergency conditions such as hernias and gastrointestinal issues.
• Colorectal Surgery: Focusing on diseases affecting the colon and rectum.
• Trauma Surgery: Engaging in critical care of trauma patients in a level I trauma center.
• Surgical Critical Care: In-depth management of critically ill surgical patients.
• Pediatric Surgery: Specializing in surgical treatments for children.

Research and Academic Tracks

Residents are encouraged to participate in research and academic activities. The program mandates participation in journal clubs and scholarship activities tailored to each year level. Opportunities for presenting research findings at regional and national meetings are also provided, supported by funding from the department for accepted presentations.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Located in Portland, Maine, a vibrant coastal city, residents are afforded a unique lifestyle, merging academic and community training in a supportive environment. The program values diversity and prioritizes resident well-being, making it a highly sought-after choice for medical students.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The residency program only accepts J1 visas for non-US citizens, making it relatively competitive yet friendly for international medical graduates (IMGs). Applicants are typically assessed through a holistic review process, focusing on prior clinical experiences in the US, commitment to serving underserved populations, and performance in applications.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for the residency, candidates must submit USMLE scores (COMLEX is not accepted), transcripts, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Direct clinical experience in a hospital setting for at least a year is also required to apply.

Rotation Schedule

Residents benefit from a structured rotation schedule allowing for diverse surgical experience without the need for outside electives. The program is uniquely designed to prepare residents through continuous assessment and feedback from faculty members, ensuring competency and professional growth.

Residents and Faculty

The faculty comprises experienced surgical professionals committed to teaching and mentoring. The supportive network fosters a sense of community where residents feel valued and engaged in their learning journey. Testimonials highlight the program’s commitment to resident education, professional development, and work-life balance.