The MedStar Health—Georgetown/Washington Hospital Center Residency Program in Integrated Vascular Surgery offers a comprehensive five-year training designed to cultivate skilled vascular surgeons. The program is unique for its integrated approach, allowing residents to transition directly from medical school into specialized training.
Curriculum and Training Structure
During the initial four years, residents will engage in both core general surgery and specialized vascular surgery rotations. The curriculum includes exposure to advanced open and endovascular techniques, ensuring a well-rounded education in all forms of vascular disease treatment. The final year is dedicated exclusively to vascular surgery, allowing residents to refine their skills further in a focused environment. The program also integrates vascular medicine, clinical research, and vascular lab education throughout the five years, offering a robust and varied experience critical for future practitioners in the field of vascular surgery 1.
Rotations and Training Sites
Residents will rotate through three key training sites, each contributing unique strengths to the training program. MedStar Washington Hospital Center serves as a large tertiary care facility, where trainees can manage a high volume of complex vascular cases, particularly in aortic problems. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital focuses on limb salvage procedures, providing multidisciplinary care opportunities within a comprehensive wound care center. Additionally, the Veterans Administration Medical Center offers varied experiences in treating different aspects of vascular disease, further enhancing residents' exposure 1.
Research Opportunities
The training program emphasizes research as an integral component of the educational experience. Residents are encouraged to develop clinical research projects and often participate in national clinical trials. Presenting research findings at professional meetings is also a common practice, contributing significantly to professional development and recognition in the field 1.
Visa Support and Application Competitiveness
The program is known for being competitive, but it maintains a friendly stance towards applicants from both DO and IMG backgrounds. The program typically offers support for J-1 visas, making it accessible to international medical graduates. However, applicants should confirm specific visa types that the program sponsors through the appropriate administrative channels 1.
Application Process and Requirements
Application submissions are managed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program accepts applications starting in October, with interviews scheduled between November and January. A notable requirement for applicants is that they should not have more than one failure on the USMLE STEP exams, ensuring that all candidates maintain a strong academic standard 3.
Alumni and Career Outcomes
The MedStar program has a strong track record of producing successful alumni who have taken up positions in prestigious institutions. The comprehensive training and diverse clinical exposure provided by the program align residents well for board certification, with 100% of residents passing their vascular surgery boards on the first attempt 2.
Faculty and Support Structures
Support from a dedicated faculty fosters an environment conducive to learning and professional growth. The faculty is committed to nurturing residents' development, providing mentorship that extends beyond clinical skills to include aspects of career progression and research engagement. Regular conferences promote collaborative learning and allow residents to stay abreast of current research and best practices in vascular surgery 4.
Overall, the MedStar Health—Georgetown/Washington Hospital Center Residency Program in Integrated Vascular Surgery stands out due to its well-rounded curriculum, strong faculty support, and extensive clinical exposure across various practice settings, ensuring that residents are well-prepared for their career in vascular surgery.
Website
Director
Misaki Kiguchi, MD, MBA, MScProgram Director Appointed Since July 2021 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
76hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$68,000First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
220Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1800451C0
2024
2 of 22023
2 of 22022
2 of 22021
2 of 22020
2 of 2Location
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
