Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program
Location:
Milwaukee, WISpecialty:
Craniofacial surgeryACGME Code:
3615621004The Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals (MCWAH) Craniofacial Surgery Fellowship Program is a one-year ACGME accredited subspecialty training program dedicated to cleft and craniofacial surgery. This program is academically associated with, located in, and administered by the Department of Plastic Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin. The core focus of the fellowship is to educate the Fellow in a comprehensive range of cleft and craniofacial patient care.
The curriculum encompasses critical aspects of craniofacial surgery, including cranial vault surgery, orthognathic surgery, distraction osteogenesis, cleft surgery, and craniofacial trauma. The Center for Craniofacial Disorders at Children's Wisconsin stands as the primary operational hub for the Craniofacial Fellow, presenting ample opportunity for hands-on experience in clinical settings. Surgical skills development, tailored to the practice of effective and safe craniofacial surgery, is at the heart of the program's training objectives 1.
Global Health Initiatives
The Department of Plastic Surgery emphasizes the significance of local and global health initiatives. It has fostered a partnership with the Plastic Surgery training program at the Universidad de Santander in Bucaramanga, Colombia, spanning over three decades. This collaboration includes an annual two-week mission trip in February focused on addressing health inequities and participating in collaborative plastic surgery training and education. It should be noted that participation in this mission trip is optional and can provide a valuable perspective on international healthcare 2.
Anatomy Instructional Dissection Lab
A detailed understanding of anatomical relationships is deemed essential for the education and comprehension of plastic surgery practices. Thus, the faculty actively participates in guiding residents through anatomical dissections on a quarterly basis. These dissections cover various topics, including facial nerve dissection, craniofacial approaches, and upper and lower extremity anatomical dissections of nerve and arterial structures crucial for flap design. This instructive environment also fosters research opportunities that have been pursued by some residents 1.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is internationally friendly and offers visa support for candidates from diverse backgrounds. It sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates. This inclusivity ensures that high-caliber applicants, regardless of their geographical origin, can partake in the fellowship.
It is essential to note that the Craniofacial Surgery Fellowship is considered highly competitive. The selection process seeks candidates who not only have solid academic performance but also demonstrate a commitment to the fields of plastic and craniofacial surgery.
Application Requirements
Potential fellows should be aware of specific application requirements that may be distinctive to the program. Generally, applicants are expected to be recent graduates from accredited medical schools, and those with one or two years of residency training in an appropriate specialty will be evaluated favorably. While the program is welcoming to applicants from diverse medical backgrounds, prior training in surgery or plastic surgery can be a significant advantage in the selection process. Additionally, the program has established protocols concerning the maximum allowable failed STEP exams for applicants, emphasizing the importance of a strong academic record.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$87,310First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Milwaukee, WI
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee, WI, offers a unique living experience with a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Milwaukee has some areas with higher crime rates, so it's important to research neighborhoods before choosing a place to live.
- Fun Activities: Milwaukee is known for its vibrant arts scene, breweries, cultural events, and beautiful Lake Michigan waterfront.
- Climate: Milwaukee experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snowy winters.
- Races and Population: Milwaukee is a diverse city with a significant African American population. The city also has a growing Hispanic community.
- Education: Milwaukee has several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Milwaukee is relatively affordable compared to other major cities, making it attractive for residents.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Chicago is about 90 miles away from Milwaukee, which can be reached by a 1.5-2 hour drive. Chicago offers big city amenities and diverse opportunities.
Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural scene, proximity to Lake Michigan.
Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, harsh winters.
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