Mass General Brigham/Brigham and Women's Hospital/Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School Program

Program Overview and Philosophy

The Mass General Brigham/Brigham and Women's Hospital/Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School Program in Dermatology/Internal Medicine offers a robust and integrative residency experience in the heart of Boston, MA. The program is uniquely designed to provide dual board eligibility in both internal medicine and dermatology, emphasizing rigorous training in complex medical dermatology. Residents are prepared for careers at the intersection of medicine and dermatology by fostering an in-depth understanding of a variety of dermatological conditions and their systemic connections while practicing with a compassionate, evidence-based approach1.

Curriculum and Rotations

Dual Training Focus

The curriculum effectively integrates training across dermatology and internal medicine. Core areas of focus include autoimmune disorders, cutaneous lymphoma, malignancies, and consultative dermatology. Residents gain a comprehensive foundation in internal medicine paired with specialized dermatologic training, ensuring they are well-prepared for board certifications in both fields1.

Diverse Rotations

Residents rotate through multiple prestigious hospitals affiliated with Harvard Medical School, offering exposure to a wide array of patient populations and clinical settings. These facilities include Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Children's Hospital Medical Center, The Lahey Clinic, and the Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury Veteran's HealthCare System1.

Clinical Training

The clinical training is extensive, with basic dermatologic education taking place in ambulatory care units. Here, residents manage a high volume of patients, with over 50,000 visits annually, across numerous subspecialty clinics. The specialty areas include tumors, pigmented lesions, pediatric dermatoses, immunologic diseases, photobiology, surgical dermatology, and laser medicine1.

Training Sites and Facilities

The program’s training sites are among the most renowned hospitals in Boston, providing cutting-edge technology and research facilities. Residents are exposed to a diverse spectrum of patients and diseases, enhancing their clinical acumen and procedural proficiency. The affiliation with Harvard Medical School ensures access to a wide array of academic resources and collaborative opportunities1.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Eligibility and Documentation

Applicants must submit a personal statement detailing their specific interests in the combined med-derm program, along with a recommendation letter from the Department of Medicine, Dean's letter, official medical school transcript, USMLE Board Scores, and Curriculum Vitae2.

Competitive Selection

The program is highly competitive, processing applications through ERAS. It interviews nine candidates and aims to match up to two residents per cycle. The designated NRMP Match Number is 1261785CO, and applicants must commit to a five-year training program to be eligible2.

Research Opportunities

The program is deeply committed to fostering research and scholarly activities, facilitated by an NIH Training Grant that supports residents wishing to pursue clinical or laboratory research. Residents have the opportunity to conduct research under the guidance of faculty preceptors or in collaboration with other departments within Harvard-affiliated institutions. The program strongly encourages participation in national meetings, such as the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, to enhance learning and networking13.

Unique Program Features

The combined residency in dermatology and internal medicine distinguishes itself by preparing trainees for multifaceted careers that straddle both specialties. Residents have dedicated time for innovation in areas such as laser and device development and are encouraged to engage in global health projects. The program also boasts a comprehensive alumni network that supports mentoring, networking, and professional growth3.

A structured career development committee aids residents in navigating potential career paths and provides guidance for leadership in fields related to health policy, quality improvement, and patient safety3.

Fellowship Opportunities

Upon program completion, residents are eligible for fellowship opportunities in both internal medicine and dermatology. The dual focus of the residency equips them with the skills necessary for advanced training and specialization in either field, further broadening their professional prospects1.

Resident Wellness and Support

The program underscores the importance of resident wellness by providing substantial support for educational and career development. Funding is available for various educational meetings and conferences, ensuring residents can expand their knowledge without financial burden. Additionally, the program allocates up to three months of elective time, allowing residents to pursue clinical or research interests aligned with their career goals. Structured mentorship programs, including faculty-resident and peer-to-peer support, ensure that residents have access to guidance and encouragement throughout their training4.

This detailed description of the residency program highlights its integrative design, comprehensive curriculum, and robust support systems, showcasing an environment that nurtures both personal and professional growth in the field of dermatology and internal medicine.