Old Dominion University Program

The Dermatology Residency program at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University is dedicated to training proficient and compassionate dermatologists while providing excellent patient care in the community. The program emphasizes the dual goals of medical education and serving underserved populations.

Program Overview

The residency is a three-year accredited program designed to foster a comprehensive skill set in dermatology. Graduates are well-prepared for clinical practice or for advanced specialty fellowship programs. The curriculum encapsulates various critical areas including general dermatology, dermatopathology, pediatric dermatology, procedural dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology, among others 1.

Curriculum and Training Sites

Residents have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in multiple clinical settings. Major training sites include:

• Andrews Hall Outpatient Clinic: This is the primary teaching site, where residents engage with diverse cases and receive instruction in areas such as phototherapy and photodynamic therapy.
• Princess Anne Outpatient Clinic: As a satellite clinic, it offers a community-focused exposure, facilitating general and procedural dermatology practices.
• Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: Known for housing the region's only Level I trauma center, residents benefit from its extensive cardiology and oncology programs.
• Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters: Residents collaborate with pediatric dermatologists at Virginia’s only freestanding children's hospital, enriching their pediatric dermatology skills.
• Pariser Dermatology Specialists: Residents immerse themselves in a prominent independent dermatology practice, learning about Mohs surgery and various cosmetic services.

Moreover, residents participate in free clinic activities, enabling them to address urgent care needs and serve marginalized community members 3.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages participation in research projects conducted in collaboration with prominent institutes, such as the Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine. Research directives include areas such as cutaneous cancers and chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis 2.

Benefits and Support

Residents are provided with competitive stipend rates, which are guaranteed for the academic years. The stipend for the first year is $64,009, and it increases in the second and third years 4. Moreover, the program prioritizes wellness, offering resources such as support groups and counseling services to maintain work-life balance throughout residency.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process occurs through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) and only complete applications including three letters of recommendation, personal statement, and proof of USMLE passing scores will be considered. It is essential to complete a year of accredited broad-based residency training prior to beginning this program 5.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports visa applicants and can sponsor H-1B and J-1 visas for qualified international medical graduates, making the residency accessible to a wider pool of candidates 6.

Competitiveness and Demographics

The Dermatology Residency program is competitive, favoring applicants with a strong academic background. The program encourages applications from both DO and IMG candidates and considers them as part of a diverse and enriched applicant pool 5. The program values the unique perspectives and experiences that such candidates bring to the residency.