MedStar Health Georgetown University Program

The MedStar Health—Georgetown University Hospital Residency Program in Pathology is a four-year categorical program designed to provide comprehensive training in both Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP). The program emphasizes academic excellence and aims to train pathologists who are proficient in various aspects of pathology through a broad and diverse educational framework.

Program Overview

This residency program integrates rich educational opportunities within the MedStar Health system and its affiliate sites. Each year, residents engage in both AP and CP rotations, allowing them to work with diverse and comprehensive case materials. The curriculum covers core areas, including:

• Anatomic Services: General surgical pathology, cytopathology, renal and transplant pathology, and post-mortem examinations.
• Clinical Services: Transfusion medicine, microbiology, hematopathology, molecular diagnostics, and general clinical chemistry.

The program prides itself on its commitment to reliability, professionalism, and respect in patient care.

Training Features

One of the distinguishing aspects of this residency is its ACGME-accredited structure, which includes:

• A robust case load that enhances learning.
• Paid electives nationwide to broaden exposure.
• A limited number of residents (12 total), facilitating personalized education.
• A diverse resident cohort representing eight different countries.

All these characteristics work together to effectively prepare residents for either clinical or academic careers in pathology.

Rotations

The residency consists of a series of rotations designed over five years:

• PGY 1: Anatomic rotations in surgical pathology, pediatric pathology, autopsy, cytology; clinical rotations in transfusion medicine, clinical chemistry, hematopathology, and informatics.
• PGY 2: Anatomic rotations focusing on renal pathology, surgical pathology, and dermatopathology paired with clinical experiences in microbiology and research electives.
• PGY 3: Surgical pathology and elective rotations, including specialized areas in transfusion medicine and management.
• PGY 4: Continued focus on surgical pathology, molecular pathology, and clinical chemistry.

This rotation structure guarantees that graduates will possess the skills necessary to make accurate diagnoses and communicate effectively with colleagues.

Diversity Commitment

The Department of Pathology is dedicated to fostering a diverse educational environment. It advances diversity through policies and procedures directed towards recruitment, retention, and addressing health disparities, ensuring that all members feel valued and supported in their contributions.

Application Process

To apply for the residency, candidates must utilize the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Upon receiving applications, the program will reach out to candidates regarding interviews. Important components of the application process include:

• The requirement for letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other credentials.
• Participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) to finalize placements.

Special application requirements may include details about years of graduation and any limitations on failed STEP exams, which should be verified during the application process.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates to help facilitate their training in the United States. The types of visas supported are typically H-1B or J-1 visas, which enable residency training.

Competitiveness

This residency program is considered highly competitive but is known to be friendly towards DO graduates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program attracts a wide range of applicants due to its supportive and inclusive training environment.

Salary and Benefits

The program provides generous compensation and full resident benefits designed to support residents throughout their training. This encompasses health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development.