Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine Program

The Vascular Surgery Residency and Fellowship Programs at Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine represent one of the longest-standing and most prestigious programs in the United States. Located in the Bronx, New York, these programs have a rich history of training future leaders in vascular surgery, serving a diverse patient population significantly impacted by cardiovascular disease. The integration of both residency and fellowship programs allows trainees to experience the full spectrum of vascular surgery education, supported by two large tertiary academic hospitals and a new state-of-the-art outpatient surgery center. This collaborative environment enables both residents and fellows to acquire diverse clinical competencies and leadership skills necessary for their future careers in vascular surgery.

Program Overview

The Vascular Surgery Residency Program is a five-year integrated program that is designed to provide residents with comprehensive training in all aspects of vascular surgery. During their training, senior residents are expected to function at a level comparable to that of the fellows in the fellowship program. This structure promotes a high level of engagement and autonomy, allowing residents to develop as both clinicians and educators.

Training Environment

The residency program is conducted across multiple training sites including:

• Moses Campus: This is the largest inpatient acute care hospital within the Montefiore Einstein system, housing more than 700 inpatient beds, extensive operating rooms, and critical care units dedicated to various specialties.
• Jack D. Weiler Hospital: Located adjacent to Albert Einstein College of Medicine, this facility conducts nearly 1,000 vascular surgery operations annually and provides residents with access to robust medical libraries and research opportunities.
• Jacobi Medical Center: Recognized as a Level 1 trauma center, Jacobi is one of the busiest trauma facilities in New York City and provides invaluable exposure to trauma and emergency vascular surgery.
• Hutchinson Campus: An ambulatory surgery center designed to efficiently deliver patient-focused care, this facility offers a fast-paced training environment with a high volume of surgical procedures.

Curriculum and Didactics

The curriculum is designed to produce not only skilled surgeons but also academic leaders by fostering critical thinking and clinical judgment skills. Residents participate in a wide range of didactic sessions including regular case presentations, morbidity and mortality conferences, journal clubs, and lectures that emphasize healthcare policy and service research. Furthermore, research is heavily encouraged, with residents gaining support for presentations at national meetings.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Diversity and comprehensiveness characterize the research opportunities offered within the program. Trainees are supported in exploring various areas of vascular surgery that align with their interests, engaging in clinical trials and investigations that contribute to advancing the field. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) awarded significant research funding to Albert Einstein College of Medicine, enabling further innovations in surgical methodologies and outcomes.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process is competitive, and the program seeks individuals who are not only academically qualified but also demonstrate a commitment to serving diverse communities. While specific eligibility criteria may vary, applicants typically need to provide documentation of their medical school graduation date, USMLE scores, and letters of recommendation. Special considerations may apply to international medical graduates (IMGs), with Montefiore being known to welcome DO and IMG candidates.

Visa Support and Types

Montefiore provides comprehensive visa support for international trainees. The program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing qualified international candidates to complete their residency training without immigration-related barriers.

Life in the Bronx

The Bronx offers residents a culturally diverse and vibrant environment, characterized by numerous parks, cultural hotspots, and proximity to New York City’s attractions. Trainees typically reside in nearby Riverdale, Lower Westchester, or Manhattan, granting them robust access to local amenities, recreational activities, and the rich history and culture of New York City.