General Surgery Residency Program Overview
The General Surgery Residency Program at Naval Medical Center San Diego is a competitive training program designed for Active Duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces. This program is unique as it integrates rigorous clinical training with military readiness and healthcare delivery, ensuring that residents gain proficiency in managing a comprehensive spectrum of surgical conditions while preparing for potential deployment or service in a military setting.
Residents engage in a variety of surgical procedures, enabling them to acquire essential skills necessary for the practice of general surgery. The program ensures a diverse array of clinical experiences through its various rotations and training sites.
Residency Structure and Curriculum
The General Surgery residency is structured to provide ample experiences across various surgical specialties, dispensing necessary curriculum delivery through hands-on training, lectures, and mentorship from seasoned practitioners.
Residents partake in rotations through different surgical disciplines including but not limited to trauma surgery, elective surgery, and surgical oncology. This breadth of experience is critical in preparing residents for the complexities of surgical practice.
Training Sites
The primary training site for the General Surgery Residency Program is the Naval Medical Center San Diego, which is equipped with advanced facilities and a wealth of resources to aid in resident education. The center provides a large patient cohort, ensuring exposure to a wide variety of surgical cases.
Research Opportunities
As part of the residency program, there is an emphasis on scholarly activity and research, especially in military healthcare settings. Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects that can it contribute significantly to the field of surgery, with potential for publication in prominent medical journals.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program does not utilize the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and applicants must be Active Duty members of the military who will utilize the Medical Operational Data System (MODS) application for the application process, aligning with military protocols as governed by the Navy Medicine & Readiness Training Command San Diego.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
This residency program is primarily designed for Active Duty military personnel, which influences the competitiveness of the program. The program is not geared towards international medical graduates (IMGs) or those seeking visa sponsorship, as the recruitment focuses strictly on qualifying candidates already in service.
Application Requirements
As specified, candidates must be Active Duty officers of the U.S. Armed Forces. Applicants typically do not have eligibility if they have multiple failed attempts at STEP exams, and previous graduation years might also influence eligibility criteria depending on the current needs of the military.
Working Hours and Resident Life
The program maintains a structured schedule with defined working hours from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. The residency experience is designed to foster professional development and a balanced work-life environment while preparing residents for their responsibilities.
Conclusion
For those applicants meeting the requirements, the General Surgery Residency Program at Naval Medical Center San Diego offers a distinct opportunity to train in an environment that emphasizes military readiness alongside comprehensive surgical education. With opportunities for research and diverse clinical exposure, it positions residents to develop into competent surgeons capable of serving both military and civilian populations.
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Director
Pamela M Choi, MDPediatric Surgeon, Program Director Appointed Since June 2023Coordinator
Program
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-Location
San Diego, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in San Diego, CA
- Crime Rate and Safety: San Diego is relatively safe compared to other cities of its size. However, like any big city, it has its share of crime. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
- Fun Activities: San Diego offers a wide range of activities from beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites to a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. There are also numerous theme parks and museums to explore.
- Climate: San Diego is known for its pleasant year-round climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city enjoys an average of 266 sunny days per year, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: San Diego is a diverse city with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities. It is home to a significant Hispanic and Asian population, among others.
- Education: San Diego is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuing education and research. The city also has a strong public school system.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Diego is higher than the national average, primarily due to housing costs. However, it offers a high quality of life with access to beautiful natural surroundings.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: San Diego is approximately 2 hours from Los Angeles by car, making it easy to visit for a weekend getaway. Los Angeles offers a different experience with its urban sprawl, entertainment industry, and diverse neighborhoods.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, fantastic weather, diverse culture, and proximity to major cities.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, traffic congestion in certain areas, and potential for natural disasters like wildfires.
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