MedStar Health Georgetown University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Plastic Surgery - IntegratedACGME Code:
3621021017NRMP Program Code:
1801362C0The MedStar Health—Georgetown University Hospital Residency Program in Plastic Surgery offers an integrated six-year training pathway starting from the PGY-1 level. This residency program is designed to cultivate proficient clinical surgeons who excel in both academic and clinical practice. Residents receive extensive training that embodies technical skills, clinical judgment, and ethical practices, preparing them for leadership roles in surgery.
Curriculum Overview
The residency program is structured to provide a robust educational experience over six years. The first year predominantly focuses on general surgery, with three months dedicated to plastic surgery. Year two is primarily focused on plastic surgery, complemented by rotations in burn surgery and critical care, effectively covering key areas such as limb salvage, hand trauma, and reconstructive surgery. From years three to six, residents gain practical exposure through an immersive plastic surgery curriculum, including chief residency responsibilities and the management of surgical services.
Year-wise Breakdown
PGY-1: The initial year is spent on general surgery services, exposing residents to a wide spectrum of surgical disciplines, including trauma, surgical oncology, and vascular surgery. Interns participate in one-month rotations across various surgical services.
PGY-2 and PGY-3: Focus shifts largely to plastic surgery, with significant training in advanced techniques related to limb salvage and upper/lower extremities. Critical care and burn surgery are included to ensure comprehensive training.
PGY-4 to PGY-6: Senior residents lead teams, gaining management experience. The responsibilities expand to include cosmetic surgery, breast reconstruction, microsurgical techniques, and pediatric plastic surgeries. Clinical, managerial, and teaching roles constitute a significant part of these last years.
Operative Experience and Rotations
Residents have access to a wide array of surgical cases. Notable training sites within the MedStar Health system include:
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
- MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
- Children's National Medical Center
Select rotations emphasize hand surgery, breast surgery, and gender affirmation surgery, where specialized faculty mentor residents through complex cases.
Research Opportunities
The program supports a strong emphasis on research, facilitated by dedicated research fellows and faculty. Residents are encouraged and provided with resources to pursue their research interests, contributing to significant advancements in the field of plastic surgery. Residents can engage in various research initiatives, with support from biostatisticians and economists to enhance outcomes.
Application Process and Special Requirements
The program utilizes the Plastic Surgery Central Application (PSCA) for its application process, moving away from the ERAS system. The PSCA aims to lower financial barriers and streamline the application for prospective residents. Applicants must possess a minimum USMLE Step 1 score of 220 to be eligible for interviews. The selection process is competitive due to the limited number of residency positions. Interviews are conducted via Zoom, with interaction opportunities with current residents to foster a comprehensive understanding of the program.
Visa Support
The program is equipped to sponsor visas for international medical graduates if they meet specific eligibility criteria. This typically includes J-1 and H-1B visa categories, assisting candidates from abroad to undertake their residency training in the United States.
Cultural and Training Environment
The residency program prides itself on an inclusive and supportive training culture. The faculty, residents, and administrative staff work collaboratively to create an environment filled with respect, encouragement, and enthusiasm for learning. This structured yet nurturing atmosphere allows residents to thrive both personally and professionally throughout their training tenure down the rigorous path of plastic surgery.
Website
- 1 .Plastic Surgery Residency Programs | DCl | MedStar Health
- 2 .Plastic Surgery Applicant Information | MedStar Georgetown University Hospital | Medical Education
- 3 .Current Residents | Plastic Surgery Program | Georgetown University Hospital | MedStar Health
- 4 .Faculty for The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Plastic Surgery Residency | MedStar Health
- 5 .List of the Recent Graduates of the MedStar Georgetown Plastic Surgery Residency Program | MedStar Health
Director
Stephen B Baker, MD, DDSInterim Chair, Program Director, MGUH Plastic Surgery Residency Appointed Since July 2008Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,000First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
33%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
225Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
1Match History
1801362C0
2024
4 of 42023
4 of 42022
4 of 42021
4 of 42020
4 of 4Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
