New York Presbyterian Hospital (Columbia Campus) Program

Overview of the Program

The New York Presbyterian Hospital (Columbia Campus) offers a multidisciplinary Dermatopathology fellowship in conjunction with its comprehensive dermatology residency program. This program ensures in-depth training and exposure to a broad spectrum of dermatopathological cases, integrating clinical dermatology with advanced diagnostic techniques. Residents engage extensively with skin disorders affecting both adults and children through various clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals.

The program aims to produce highly skilled academic dermatologists who excel in patient care as well as in research. It utilizes state-of-the-art facilities and a robust curriculum to prepare residents for their future careers in dermatology.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum spans three years and combines clinical rotations with didactic learning sessions. Residents participate in a range of clinical settings, gaining hands-on experience while practicing under the supervision of faculty experts. The curriculum incorporates core lectures, journal reviews, and specialty training such as dermatopathology, ensuring a thorough understanding of both theory and practice.

Residents are exposed to diverse clinical environments, which allows them to manage a variety of skin conditions actively. Pathology training is integrated throughout the dermatology residency, allowing for maximum learning during rotatory sessions.

Training Sites

Residents train at several prestigious institutions within the NYP/CUIMC system. Key locations include:

• The Herbert Irving Center for Dermatology & Skin Care
• New York-Presbyterian Milstein Pavilion
• New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital
• New York-Presbyterian Allen Pavilion
• James J. Peters Veteran’s Administration Medical Center

This varied exposure ensures a well-rounded clinical experience where residents can engage with a diverse patient population with different dermatological needs.

Research Opportunities

Research forms an integral part of the fellowship program. The dermatology department engages in active basic science research and clinical trials, offering residents the chance to participate in significant investigative efforts. Research facilities boast modern laboratories, and residents have access to essential resources including state-of-the-art microscopy and molecular diagnostic tools.

Furthermore, the department fosters an environment encouraging academic inquiry, supporting residents' interests in pursuing fellowship training in specific dermatology subspecialties such as Mohs surgery or dermatopathology.

Application Process and Requirements

The program encourages a holistic application review process. Applicants must have completed a first-year residency in a relevant area accredited by ACGME. A valid ECFMG certificate is required for foreign medical graduates, who are also welcome to apply.

Applications are submitted via the ERAS system and must be complete by the specified deadline. Necessary application materials include:

• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae
• Official Medical School Transcripts
• Dean's Letter
• Three Letters of Reference
• USMLE Scores (minimum of Step 1, and Step 2 is encouraged)

Notably, the program exclusively sponsors J-1 visas for international residents.

Competitiveness

The dermatology residency program is highly competitive. Each year, approximately 3 to 5 residents are accepted into the program after their PGY-1 year. The selection is based on a comprehensive review of the application materials, taking into consideration individual accomplishments and experiences in addition to test scores.

The program actively seeks to recruit a diverse group of residents and fosters a culture of respect and inclusivity. This commitment includes a focus on attracting candidates from various backgrounds, providing an exceptional training environment that reflects the community it serves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Residents typically spend 11-12 months of their training at the James J. Peters VA Hospital. Each class averages about 12 residents. The program’s structure allows residents to develop both clinical acumen and research skills in parallel.

Moonlighting opportunities may be available for residents during their final year of training, subject to program leadership approval.