MedStar Health Georgetown University Program

Overview of the Residency Program

The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Residency Program in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery is a fully accredited program offering a comprehensive training experience. Graduating alternating 3 to 4 residents annually, the program emphasizes a clinically rich education within a collegial environment, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among residents.

The training is structured to comply with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education requirements and prepares residents for the American Board of Otolaryngology. The curriculum encompasses a full breadth of otolaryngology specialties, such as Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery, Pediatric Otolaryngology, Laryngology, Skull Base Surgery, Rhinology, and Sleep Medicine and Surgery. This diverse exposure prepares graduates for varied career paths within the field.

Curriculum Structure

The training spans five years, with a carefully crafted curriculum that includes clinical rotations and educational opportunities. Each year includes:

• Post-Graduate Year 1: A focus on foundational otolaryngology skills, with a total of 6 months dedicated to gaining experience in adult and pediatric otolaryngology.
• Post-Graduate Year 2: Continued development in adult general otolaryngology and additional specialized rotations, including rhinology.
• Post-Graduate Year 3: Advanced clinical exposure, including a dedicated research year where residents can engage deeply in scholarly activities.
• Post-Graduate Year 4: Apprenticeship experiences in facial plastic surgery and advanced head and neck surgery.
• Post-Graduate Year 5: Chief rotations, where senior residents manage inpatient services while overseeing outpatient clinics and surgeries.

Rotations and Clinical Exposure

The rotations throughout the residency are strategically positioned at several key institutions:

• MedStar Georgetown University Hospital: Provides extensive experience in otolaryngology, including a focus on head and neck surgical procedures.
• MedStar Washington Hospital Center: Offers exposure to emergency, trauma surgery, and a robust surgical ICU experience.
• Children's National Medical Center: Focused pediatric rotations that enhance skills in dealing with child-specific health challenges.
• Veterans Affairs Medical Center: Dedicated to tremendous clinical exposure for managing complex otolaryngologic disorders.

Educational Components

Resident education is the cornerstone of the program. Weekly Grand Rounds facilitate learning through resident presentations and guest lectures, aiming to deliver a curriculum enriched with case-based studies, journal clubs, and practical surgical reviews.

A unique feature of the program is the simulation-based training at MedStar's Simulation Training and Education Lab (SiTEL), where residents engage in hands-on workshops that cover various otolaryngological techniques such as suturing, dissection courses, and trauma management simulation. An annual ORL Emergencies Boot Camp also provides practical emergency training for residents from across the country.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a vital role in the residency program. Each resident is mandated to submit scholarly projects for local and national presentations. During the third year, a 4-month block is dedicated solely to research, allowing residents to concentrate on their specific interests supported by faculty mentorship.

The program benefits from collaborations with esteemed institutions like the National Institutes of Health and the Georgetown Lombardi Cancer Center, which enhances the breadth of research opportunities available to residents.

Application Requirements

Applying to the MedStar Health - Georgetown University Hospital Residency Program requires submission through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Key requirements include:

• USMLE Step I transcript
• USMLE Step II CK and CS when available
• Medical school transcript and a personal statement
• Dean's Letter and three letters of recommendation, including one from the department

The program is highly competitive, and the application committee conducts a holistic review, factoring in academic performance, clinical experience, and personal achievements.

Living and Practicing in Washington, D.C.

Residence in Washington, D.C. offers residents a vibrant mix of cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities. Known for its rich educational and cultural offerings, D.C. presents various attractions ranging from national monuments and museums to fine dining and entertainment.

The proximity of MedStar Georgetown University Hospital to the historic Georgetown neighborhood further enriches the living experience for residents, who enjoy easy access to diverse amenities and community engagement.

Visa Support for International Applicants

The MedStar Health - Georgetown University Hospital Residency Program is supportive of international medical graduates and is able to sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, enabling qualified candidates international exposure to participate in the residency program.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The program actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its residency cohort and has established an Underrepresented in Medicine Scholarship aimed at supporting students of diverse backgrounds who wish to participate in away rotations. This initiative reflects the program's commitment to enriching the learning environment through diversity.

Alumni and Graduates Success

The success of program graduates is exemplified through their diverse career paths, either in fellowship training or professional practices. Alumni have pursued advanced fellowships across various renowned institutions, establishing the program's capability in preparing residents for prestigious next steps in their medical careers.