Jan 18, 2018
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Program
Overview
The Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) General Surgery Residency Program is a five-year program designed to equip residents with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for evaluating, diagnosing, and managing surgical patients.
Curriculum
The curriculum emphasizes team-based learning and participation in systems-based care. It features multidisciplinary rounds and case management interaction during rotations. The program also provides comprehensive training on advanced surgical technology, including the da Vinci Robotics system. Residents engage in daily tiered huddles that address safety concerns and daily operational readiness, ensuring they are prepared for all challenges.2
Yearly Rotations
Each year of training offers distinct rotation opportunities. The curriculum includes:
- Acute Care Surgery, including trauma and surgical critical care.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery.
- Burn Surgery, performed at Grady Memorial Hospital, a verified burn center.
- Transplant Surgery at Emory University Hospital.
- Pediatric Surgery rotations at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.
These rotations allow residents to gain practical experience while closely supervised by faculty who are experts in their respective fields.8
Training Locations
Residents receive training at multiple facilities, including:
- Northeast Georgia Medical Center—Gainesville
- Northeast Georgia Medical Center—Braselton
- Grady Memorial Hospital
- Emory University Hospital
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
Each site offers unique learning opportunities across various surgical disciplines and patient demographics, ensuring that residents experience the full spectrum of surgical care in different healthcare settings.6
Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to participate in clinical research projects. The program aims to foster academic growth and provide avenues for residents to present their findings at various conferences, contributing to their professional development.4
Application Process
Applications are accepted via ERAS, with specific document requirements including USMLE or COMLEX scores, medical school transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Applicants must have completed both parts of the USMLE Step 1 and 2 or COMLEX Parts 1 and 2.5
Visa Support
The program has provisions for international medical graduates (IMGs), including sponsorship for J-1 visas. The program accepts well-qualified international medical school graduates who hold ECFMG certification. However, it does not sponsor O-1 visas.3
Residents' Community
The current resident cohort at NGMC includes individuals from various backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning environment and enhances collaborative care practices.7
Competitiveness
The program is regarded as highly competitive, welcoming applications from both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates. It actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its training framework, ensuring that a broad spectrum of candidates is considered.1
Salary and Benefits
Residents receive a competitive salary, with PGY-1 starting at approximately $68,805. Benefits include health insurance, 401k options, and an educational stipend that increases with each year of residency.9
Unique Aspects
NGMC stands out by providing access to the latest surgical technology and a supportive learning environment that encourages resident participation in shaping the program's future. Additionally, its focus on a comprehensive care approach prepares residents not just for surgical practice, but for multifaceted roles in healthcare delivery.6
Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
10, 6, 6, 6, 6 (5 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation without Outcomes
(Effective: January 15, 2026)
Composition [2]
Training
Fellowship Rate:60% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:0.7X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: --
First Year Paid Vacation: 15 days [1]
First Year Salary: $68,805 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 24 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 72 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: 227–265 [2]
Visa Sponsorship:J1 [2]
YOG Cutoff:5 [1]
Race / Ethnicity
Gender
Incoming Schools
18%
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
7%
University of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine
7%
Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University
7%
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
* Multiple schools share the same admissions rate.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Signals
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
Match History [4]
Roster
Publications
48 Publications (5 yr)
Peer-reviewed output from faculty and residents, last 5 years
48 Publications (5 yr)
Reverse Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report.
When Hard Doesn't Mean Malignant: A Benign Axillary Finding in Lobular Carcinoma.
Location
Gainesville, GA [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing — Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime — All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
Living in Gainesville, GA
Safety
Gainesville has a relatively low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
Fun Activities
Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating on Lake Lanier. Explore the Northeast Georgia Mountains, visit local wineries, and attend cultural events at the Brenau Downtown Center.
Climate
Expect hot summers with temperatures in the 80s and 90s, and mild winters with occasional snow. Spring and fall are pleasant.
Races and Population
Gainesville has a diverse population with a mix of White, Hispanic, Black or African American, and Asian residents.
Education
Gainesville is home to the University of North Georgia and several public schools, providing educational opportunities.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Gainesville is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
Nearby Cities
Atlanta is approximately 50 miles away from Gainesville, which can be reached in about an hour by car. Atlanta offers a bustling city life with various cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Pros
- Safe environment
- outdoor recreational opportunities
- lower cost of living.
Cons
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
FAQ
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Nearby programs
Surgery Programs Near Gainesville, GA
Other specialties near Gainesville, GA
References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/4401200399
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/1b2e1980-90d0-059f-5d4f-3a94fba249f9
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=160XX00US1331908
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr