National Capital Consortium Program

The National Capital Consortium Program in Neurological Surgery is a comprehensive seven-year residency program located in Bethesda, Maryland, that fosters the training of military neurosurgeons. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and is designed for graduates of medical schools. If a prior internship has been completed, residents may begin at the PGY2 level with prior approval from the Neurological Surgery Review Committee. There are no categorical prerequisites required for entry into the program.

The program encompasses an array of rotations through esteemed institutions such as Children’s National Hospital, INOVA Fairfax, and the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. Its overarching mission is to cultivate neurologic surgeons who are both clinically proficient and research-oriented, capable of becoming leaders in military neurosurgery. Mentorship is a critical component that aims to provide role models for residents to emulate as future military officers in the field of neurosurgery 1.

Curriculum and Academic Structure

The curriculum for the residency is structured to include academics every Monday morning, which consist of case conferences, tumor boards, cadaver labs, faculty presentations, mortality and morbidity conferences, and journal clubs. These educational sessions are designed to engage residents in complex case discussions and present opportunities for extensive learning experiences within a collaborative environment. Residents can also pursue elective research rotations at various local institutions to enhance their education 1.

Research and Development

A significant emphasis is placed on research throughout the residency framework. The department is deeply involved in neurological research, particularly focusing on traumatic brain injury (TBI), and incorporates various projects aimed at developing new biomarkers and diagnostic measures for mild TBI. Residents participate in ongoing research initiatives, and it is mandatory for them to complete a research project during their residency leading to a peer-reviewed journal submission 1.

Training Sites

The residency program includes diverse training sites, which are vital for providing a multifaceted learning environment. Key participating sites include INOVA Fairfax, Children’s National Hospital, Washington Hospital Center, Holy Cross Hospital, and the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. This extensive network ensures that residents receive exposure to a wide range of clinical experiences, including managing complex cases in both civilian and military settings 1.

Special Features of the Program

This program is unique as it hosts residents from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, integrating elements from each service to create a distinct military-specific curriculum. The coursework includes considerations for deployments, austere environments, and aspects unique to military medicine. Residents are also afforded the opportunity to engage with the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) for simulated patient experiences, which encompass crucial skills such as breaking bad news and conducting neurologic exams 1.

Visa and International Medical Graduates

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, supporting various visa types essential for residency training. This inclusivity helps attract a diverse pool of applicants who are eager to contribute to military neurosurgery 1.

Application Requirements

Applicants must exhibit a strong commitment to military medicine and may need to adhere to specific application requirements, such as graduation year and maximum allowed failed exams on standardized tests like the USMLE. The program typically seeks candidates who are highly competitive and who demonstrate a potential for excellence in neurological surgery 1.

Wellness and Support Services

Recognizing the rigorous and demanding nature of residency training, the program emphasizes the health and well-being of its residents. Wellness initiatives and activities are conducted regularly to foster a supportive and balanced environment that enhances the residents' physical, mental, and emotional health while navigating their training 1.