Ohio State University Hospital Program

The Ohio State University Otolaryngology Residency Program operates as an accredited five-year training program designed to prepare residents for a career in otolaryngology – head and neck surgery. Ranked as the fifth best program nationally according to Doximity’s 2023-2024 Residency Navigator, this program accepts five residents per year, providing a comprehensive training experience that emphasizes both clinical and research excellence.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum encompasses an extensive array of rotations over the five years. In the first year, termed PGY-1, residents undergo a surgical internship at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center alongside a dedicated six-month otolaryngology block. As residents progress through the program, they will engage in 12 months of head and neck service line, seven months at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and additional rotations on the university service encompassing various specialties such as neurotology, general otolaryngology, laryngology, and more.

During the course of training, there is also a focus on research with each resident allotted six months for dedicated research rotations divided across the PGY-3 and PGY-4 years. The residency encourages involvement in research projects, with past residents successfully completing multiple published papers during their training, aided by research faculty.

Research Opportunities

The Ohio State University Department of Otolaryngology places substantial emphasis on research, offering residents opportunities to engage in projects related to several focus areas such as hearing, balance disorders, and head and neck oncology. Over the past five years, resident exam scores on the national ENT in-service examination have placed them in the top 5 percent nationwide, indicating a strong academic environment.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program fosters a collaborative and familial culture among its residents, encouraging teamwork and personal development. Enhancements to educational experiences are provided through selected funding for meetings and conferences. Each PGY-4 and PGY-5 resident is allotted a budget, with the department contributing $1,500 per resident to offset expenses related to attending specialty meetings, emphasizing the importance of continuous professional development.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is recognized as highly competitive, with ideal candidates typically having strong academic metrics. The matched application statistics from recent years indicate an average Step 1 score of 253 and Step 2 score of 260. Specific application requirements include submission through ERAS, completion of medical school, and certain curricular prerequisite courses. There are typically 50 interviews conducted each year, and preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated involvement and interest in otolaryngology.

Applicants may also look forward to potential scholarship opportunities, such as the Under-Represented Minority Away Rotation Scholarship, which aids in funding travel and lodging for selected underrepresented minority students during their rotations.

Training Sites

Training occurs primarily at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center and Nationwide Children's Hospital. These institutions provide diverse clinical experiences, enabling residents to interact directly with a wide array of patients and acquire hands-on skills in managing complex otolaryngological conditions.

Visa Support

The Ohio State University Otolaryngology Residency Program supports applications for J-1 visas for international medical graduates. Candidates interested in this aspect should gather relevant documentation as required for application purposes.

Call Schedule and Didactics

The residency utilizes a night float call system during both PGY-2 and PGY-3 years, with an average call frequency of every fourth night. An extensive curriculum covering various didactics and courses is provided throughout the residency. This encompasses topics such as head and neck oncology, medical practice administration, emergencies in otolaryngology, and more.

Overall, the program not only equips residents with clinical skills but also emphasizes educational and research excellence, nurturing the next generation of leaders in Otolaryngology.