New York-Presbyterian/Queens Program

At NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, the Surgery Residency Program emphasizes the comprehensive training and development of its residents. The program is designed to foster a rich educational atmosphere, with a fully structured didactic program that allows residents to immerse themselves in dynamic learning environments.

One of the most notable features of the program is its emphasis on clinical exposure. Residents benefit from attending to a wide range of surgical cases, encompassing both general and subspecialty surgical fields. The volume and complexity of cases encountered provide residents with essential skills and confidence. Specifically, residents are given direct patient care responsibilities, benefiting from a non-fellowship training environment where they can engage deeply with patient management across a spectrum of surgical specialties 1.

Program Curriculum

The curriculum is competency-based, fulfilling all required disciplines according to the Residency Review Committee (RRC) guidelines. This structured training progresses through five postgraduate years, gradually increasing resident responsibility and autonomy. The call schedule follows a night float system from Sunday to Thursday, ensuring that residents have a balanced exposure to opportunities while adhering to ACGME duty hour regulations 4.

Postgraduate Year (PGY) Structure

1. **PGY-1**: Introduction to fundamental surgical principles, including conducting history and physical examinations, pre-operative and post-operative care, and basic surgical procedures. Rotations include trauma, vascular, and acute care surgery.

2. **PGY-2**: Residents receive more immersive experiences in general surgery along with thoracic surgery, trauma, and emergency surgery. They begin functioning as the surgical consult resident in the emergency room.

3. **PGY-3**: This year focuses on obtaining significant operative experience, where residents lead surgical teams while supervising junior residents and medical students.

4. **PGY-4**: Focuses on general and vascular surgery service rotations, along with an elective clinical rotation that allows for exploration of interests.

5. **PGY-5**: During this chief resident year, residents take full responsibility for the surgical service, guiding and teaching incoming residents while managing complex cases 2.

Research Opportunities

The program not only prioritizes clinical skills but also emphasizes academic growth through research opportunities. Residents are encouraged to participate in various clinical research initiatives, culminating in the chance to present findings at conferences and publish articles in medical journals 1.

Training Environment

The training sites provide a diverse and multicultural patient population, enhancing the learning experience with exposure to a variety of healthcare needs and unique clinical challenges. The hospital's vast array of services—including Level 1 trauma care, minimally invasive surgery, and cancer surgery—ensures that residents are well-prepared for their future careers in surgery 3.

Competitiveness and Applications

The application process requires prospective residents to submit their ERAS application with specific credentials, including a minimum USMLE score of 220 on the first attempt, a dean's letter, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, CV, and an official medical school transcript. The program accepts a minority of applicants, making it competitive; however, it is noted to be friendly toward DO and IMG applicants 5.

The program discontinued sponsorship of new H1B visas and now only supports J1 visas. While U.S. clinical experiences are preferred, they are not a strict requirement 6.

Unique Aspects

The Women in Surgery program signifies the institution's dedication to diversity, fostering mentorship and support for female surgical trainees. This initiative aims to empower women in the field by creating an inclusive environment and promoting equality within the surgical community 7.

Faculty and Mentorship

Residents work with a dedicated faculty who possess a multifaceted background in surgery. This direct engagement with faculty members provides trainees with invaluable mentorship and enhances their learning potential throughout residency. The close-knit collaboration helps cultivate a supportive educational environment, vital for the professional growth of residents 8.

Graduate Outcomes

Graduates of the Surgery Residency Program at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens have a strong record of pursuing fellowships and securing competitive positions in various surgical subspecialties. Alumni reflect the program’s commitment to excellence, often obtaining placements in esteemed institutions for further training 9.