MedStar Health Georgetown University Program

Program Overview and Philosophy

The MedStar Health Georgetown University Program offers a comprehensive Dermatology/Internal Medicine residency, designed to equip physicians with the skills necessary for both clinical practice and academic roles in dermatology. Set in the vibrant location of Chevy Chase, MD, the program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating a robust educational framework with practical, hands-on experiences across diverse medical specialties. A hallmark of the program is its commitment to academic excellence and clinical proficiency within varied patient populations, preparing residents for the evolving medical landscape.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to provide a diverse and rich learning experience. Residents are engaged in various educational activities throughout the week, which include:

• Consult rewinds
• Multidisciplinary melanoma and skin cancer tumor boards
• D.C. resident consortiums
• Textbook reviews
• Kodachrome conferences
• Journal club
• Grand rounds

Dermatology Program

The categorical Dermatology Residency involves rotations in:

• General Dermatology
• Contact/Patch Testing
• Dermatopathology
• Pediatric Dermatology
• Inpatient Dermatology
• Dermatologic Surgery

Elective options extend to a rotation at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), among others.1

Internal Medicine/Dermatology Combined Program

Residents in the combined program complete rotations in several key areas, including:

• Emergency Medicine
• Infectious Disease
• Rheumatology
• Inpatient Wards
• ICU/CCU
• General Medicine Ambulatory Care
• Neurology
• Geriatrics
• Oncology
• Elective choices over the PGY-1 and PGY-2 years

Training Sites and Facilities

Training for this program occurs at several prestigious institutions, providing exposure to a wide array of dermatological conditions and patient demographics:

• MedStar Washington Hospital Center: The largest hospital in Washington, D.C., serving as a major referral center.1
• MedStar Georgetown University Hospital: A 609-bed not-for-profit facility offering comprehensive healthcare services.
• Children’s National Hospital: Offers specialized exposure to pediatric dermatological conditions.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Hosts opportunities for groundbreaking research and clinical rotations.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery practices in Chevy Chase, MD: Provide specialized training in advanced dermatologic surgery techniques.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Applicants must utilize the MyERAS application, with the supplemental ERAS application as an optional component to indicate program preferences. The program offers 2 PGY-2 Categorical Dermatology positions and 2 PGY-1 Internal Medicine-Dermatology positions for the forthcoming academic years. Prospective residents are required to submit USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores. The program encourages applications from international medical graduates, who must have ECFMG certification and be eligible for a J1 visa.2

Research Opportunities

The program actively encourages residents to engage in research activities. A strong focus on education is maintained through weekly conferences and a basic science curriculum. Additionally, residents can present their work through abstracts, papers, and posters at regional and national meetings, with travel funding support available to facilitate these activities.1

Visa Support

International applicants have the opportunity to pursue training within the program by satisfying the requirement of holding an ECFMG certification and qualifying for a J1 visa. These measures ensure a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

Unique Program Features

A defining characteristic of the program is its broad clinical and didactic curriculum, providing access to diverse patient populations and advanced treatment modalities. Residents benefit from comprehensive exposure to various specialties within both dermatology and internal medicine, facilitating a well-rounded education and skill set.

Resident Wellness and Support

Resident well-being is prioritized with several supportive measures in place. The program offers travel funding to attend major dermatological conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology meeting, which residents may attend three times during their training. Additionally, a generous book and educational fund are provided to help cover the costs of necessary books and supplies, ensuring residents have the resources to succeed in their academic and clinical endeavors.1