Ohio State University Hospital Program

The Urology Residency Program at The Ohio State University provides a comprehensive and rewarding educational experience that combines clinical training and didactic learning. Designed to meet all requirements set forth by the American Board of Urology for board certification, the program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The faculty consists of nationally recognized leaders in urology, with expertise spanning all subspecialties, ensuring residents benefit from a high caliber of training.

Program Overview

The Urology Residency Program is a five-year training program, currently accommodating 20 residents. Recent enhancements have allowed an increase in the number of residents from three to four per year since 2022. The program offers extensive resources for residents, including a robust curriculum that involves direct patient care, educational activities, and mentorship opportunities to develop the next generation of urologic leaders.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to develop residents progressively through five years of training, outlined as follows:

PGY-1

The first year consists of 13 four-week rotations, which includes three months of general surgery, three months of additional non-urological surgery, and three months of urology. Interns also participate in ambulatory care and quality improvement projects during this foundational year.

PGY-2

In the second year, rotations include Ambulatory Urology, Oncology, Research, as well as specialized surgical rotations at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, enhancing skills in both adult and pediatric urology through training at diverse sites.

PGY-3 to PGY-5

The mid to senior years involve increasingly complex urologic surgeries, leadership roles, and opportunities to mentor junior residents. The fifth year emphasizes administrative responsibilities and patient management, preparing residents for independent practice or fellowship training.

Research and Training Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the training experience, with opportunities for residents to engage in various projects typically under the mentorship of faculty members. The Urology program encourages participation in clinical research and quality improvement initiatives, requiring residents to publish and present their work at conferences. A dedicated one-month research rotation is provided during the second, third, and fourth years, allowing residents to focus entirely on research activities.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program boasts several distinguishing features, including:

• Access to a wide range of resources for educational travel and professional development, including reimbursement for annual dues and surgical loupes.
• An educational travel budget for residents who meet specific criteria, allowing them to attend relevant conferences.
• A structured simulation curriculum to foster technical skills in robotic surgery, endoscopy, and other advanced techniques.
• Participation in medical mission trips to underserved populations, enhancing both global health understanding and practical skills.

Training Sites

Training occurs across multiple sites within central Columbus, including The James Cancer Hospital, University Hospital, OSU East Hospital, and Nationwide Children's Hospital. Each site provides unique opportunities for residents to engage in specialized care and collaborative learning environments with interprofessional teams.

Resident Benefits

The program offers competitive salaries, with the reported stipends for PGY-1 through PGY-5 residents ranging from $61,141 to $69,391. Residents enjoy comprehensive benefits, including three weeks of paid vacation per year, health insurance, and access to wellness programs. They also receive significant support for continuing medical education, contributing to both academic and professional advancement within the field of urology.

Application Requirements

To apply to the program, candidates must hold an MD or DO degree from an accredited medical school. They should be eligible for a medical training certificate in Ohio and must successfully complete necessary background checks and examinations. The program is competitive but also growing in inclusivity for DOs (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) and IMGs (International Medical Graduates), ensuring diversity within the residency cohort.

Visa Support

The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas for qualified international medical graduates, allowing them to participate in the residency program while obtaining the necessary training for licensure in the United States.