Midwestern University GME Consortium / Mountain Vista Program

Overview of the Surgery Residency Program

The Mountain Vista General Surgery Residency Program is constructed upon the traditional principles of surgical training, while also integrating new technologies and evolving methods to provide a modern approach to surgical education. The program is committed to cultivating skilled general surgeons who excel in performing routine surgical procedures upon completion of their residency training. The core objectives include fostering sound medical judgment, developing effective surgical techniques, and providing an exemplary surgical experience through a majority of rotations focused in general surgery.1

The quality of education is guided by standards from both the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons and the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education. Additionally, the program ensures that trainees master the Six Core Competencies established by these organizations, equipping them with essential skills for their professional development.

Mission and Aims

The mission is to deliver comprehensive training that equips resident trainees with the necessary cognitive and procedural skills to emerge as superior surgeons. The program emphasizes community-based teaching, real-world training, and advocacy for patient populations to improve overall health outcomes.1

Key aims include:

• Providing a diverse educational environment that addresses the wellness needs of trainees.
• Facilitating resources for career development.
• Cultivating a continuous improvement and patient safety culture.
• Enhancing patient-centered communication and shared decision-making skills.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum of the Mountain Vista Surgical Residency is meticulously designed for maximal exposure to general surgical practices. It allows for both cognitive and procedural learning experiences through various rotations focused on managing pre- and post-operative care, as well as specialized surgical areas not available directly at Mountain Vista Medical Center.3

A detailed rotation structure includes:

• 4-week block schedules resulting in 13 clinical rotations per academic year.
• The General Surgery Rotation provides comprehensive exposure to various clinical pathologies, including colorectal and endocrine surgeries, and surgical oncology.

Residents will experience rotations primarily at Mountain Vista Medical Center, complemented by additional experiences at affiliated hospitals that include Tempe St. Luke's and other local medical facilities. The educational strategies employed include regularly scheduled didactics with a systems-based approach to surgical education, ensuring residents receive a well-rounded training experience.3

Application Requirements

The Mountain Vista General Surgery Residency Program is selective and offers three PGY-1 positions annually. Applicants must meet specific educational prerequisites, including graduation from an accredited Osteopathic or allopathic medical school.4

Additional requirements for foreign medical graduates include:

• Possession of a current valid ECFMG certificate.
• A full unrestricted license to practice in a U.S. jurisdiction.
• Completion of a Fifth Pathway program from an LCME-accredited school.

Key application documents include personal statements, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a complete CV. The residency program employs the National Resident Matching Program for candidate selection and conducts interviews with selected applicants from mid-December through mid-January.4

Benefits and Resources

The program offers competitive stipends for residents, beginning at $64,488 for PGY-1 and increasing annually.2

Comprehensive benefits provided include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability and professional liability insurance
• Paid leave and employee assistance programs
• Financial support for education, conferences, and wellness initiatives

This holistic approach is designed to ensure residents can maintain a healthy work/life balance while focused on their professional development.2

Visa Sponsorship and Diversity

The Mountain Vista Surgery Residency Program is committed to diversity within the workforce and welcomes applicants from a range of backgrounds, including international graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic candidates. The program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas for qualifying residency candidates, ensuring support for those requiring visas to participate in the residency training.4

Unique Aspects of the Program

Residents benefit from a collaborative training environment that not only emphasizes individual growth but also communal learning experiences. This is exemplified through the program's well-structured didactic series, including journal clubs, case discussions, and morning reports, facilitating ongoing learning and fellowship among residents and faculty.3