Ohio State University Hospital Program

The Pathology Residency Program at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center offers a comprehensive training experience in both anatomic and clinical pathology, deeply rooted in a robust didactic framework and diverse clinical exposure. The program is fully accredited and supports the education of its residents through an extensive array of resources, teaching opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Curriculum Overview

The residency program spans four years and is designed to provide a balanced integration of Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP). Residents receive hands-on exposure to a high volume of cases, interpreting approximately 70,000 surgical specimens annually, which fosters proficiency in handling both common and rare specimens. The core curriculum includes 108 weeks of AP, 76 weeks of CP, and 24 weeks of elective opportunities across different subspecialties. This varied exposure enhances clinical acumen and prepares residents for the American Board of Pathology certification examinations 1.

Rotations

During the first year (PGY-1), residents engage in a foundational experience that includes 36 weeks of surgical pathology and 12 weeks in the autopsy service. Specific rotations within surgical pathology cover diverse subspecialties including gastrointestinal, genitourinary, breast, gynecological, and thyroid pathology. Throughout the program, residents advance through increasingly complex cases, guided by experienced faculty and pathology assistants 1. The second year (PGY-2) incorporates additional clinical pathology experiences, allowing for in-depth engagement in hematopathology, transfusion medicine, clinical chemistry, and medical microbiology.

Training Sites

The residency program takes place primarily on the OSU campus, utilizing facilities within University Hospital, University Hospital East, and The James Cancer Hospital, noted for its advanced cancer care. The state-of-the-art Regional Autopsy Center and Digital Pathology Scan Center provide cutting-edge resources for diagnostic work and research endeavors, creating an exceptional learning environment 1.4.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research, encouraging residents to engage in projects within and outside the department. Opportunities for presenting at national conferences, accessing a wealth of literature in the resident-run pathology library, and participating in an array of conferences bolster the academic foundation for residents. Furthermore, the department’s commitment to a digital pathology initiative enhances research capacities, employing technology to analyze and interpret diagnostic materials 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The residency program distinguishes itself with a supportive environment conducive to professional development. A wellness initiative aims to foster camaraderie among residents through various social and team-building activities, enhancing both personal and professional relationships 1. The program also boasts a 100% board pass rate for its residents over the past five years, a testament to the efficacy of its training structure and educational resources 1.

Application Process

Applicants must submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by November 1 for positions starting July 1 of the following year. The program is open to graduates from accredited medical schools in the U.S. and Canada, as well as international medical graduates who meet specific visa requirements, such as holding a J-1 Visa or having permanent resident status 2. Essential application requirements include passing scores on USMLE Step I and II (with a preference for applicants graduating within the last five years) and strong letters of recommendation, ideally from U.S. physicians 2.

Visa Support

The program can sponsor J-1 Visas for international medical graduates through the ECFMG Exchange Visitor Sponsorship Program, providing vital support for eligible international applicants seeking residency training in the U.S. 2.

Salary and Benefits

Residents receive competitive stipends, with the PGY-1 salary starting at approximately $66,439 and incrementally increasing in subsequent years. In addition to salaries, the program offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance options, paid vacation days, and stipends for educational resources 1.

Competitiveness

The program is known to be competitive, accepting a select number of residency positions each year. It actively seeks candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment and potential for success in the field of pathology, offering a favorable environment for both U.S. and international applicants. The program's history of successful fellowship placements further underscores its reputation as a strong training ground for future pathologists 1.5.

Wellness Initiatives

Recognizing the demanding nature of residency training, the program prioritizes resident wellness through organized events and activities, aiming to create a supportive, engaged community. With wellness events such as Top Golf outings, holiday parties, and group recreational activities, the program fosters a healthy work-life balance for its residents 3.