The Urology Residency program at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University presents a comprehensive training experience designed to produce highly skilled urologists. The program has continuously maintained a 100% pass rate for the American Board of Urology over the past two decades, reflecting its commitment to excellence in urologic education and clinical practice.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to provide residents with significant exposure to a variety of surgical techniques and patient management strategies. This includes ample training opportunities in:
- Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy
- Radical cystectomy with continent diversion
- Laparoscopic radical and donor nephrectomy
- Pelvic reconstruction for incontinence/prolapse
- Urethral reconstruction
During the first two years, residents rotate through the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth clinics, gaining additional index case experience across multiple affiliated hospitals, ensuring a well-rounded clinical exposure.
Rotations and Training Sites
The program utilizes several key training sites:
- Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: This primary teaching hospital serves as the epicenter of training, featuring the only Level I trauma center in the area and a renowned Urology program recognized as "high-performing" by U.S. News & World Report.
- Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters: As the sole freestanding children’s hospital in Virginia, residents manage pediatric inpatient rotations and outpatient care.
- Naval Medical Center Portsmouth: Offers comprehensive training in a tertiary care environment, allowing residents to rotate through various outpatient clinics.
- Urology of Virginia: Provides outpatient treatment for various urological needs, enriching residents’ educational experience in an ambulatory setting.
Research Opportunities
The program fosters an environment of inquiry and innovation. Residents participate in research across various areas such as urologic oncology and robotic surgery. Active participation includes manuscript preparation, presentations at national meetings, and contributions to ongoing clinical studies, enhancing the research acumen of trainees.12
Fellowship Training
Upon completion of the residency, fellows have the opportunity to specialize further through fellowships in:
- Adult and Pediatric Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgery
- Endourology, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Surgery
These fellowship programs provide intensive training and direct patient care, coupled with research activities, allowing fellows to gain expertise in advanced urological procedures.
Supportive Environment and Benefits
The program is dedicated to ensuring a balanced work-life environment. Benefits include:
- A competitive stipend structure for residents ranging from $64,009 for PGY1 to $73,138 for PGY5
- Education leave for attending conferences and seminars
- Wellness resources including after-hours counseling services and support groups
This commitment to well-being translates into a supportive training environment that values both professional development and personal health.
Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The program is designed to be inclusive, welcoming international medical graduates (IMGs) and supporting visa sponsorship, including J-1 and H-1B visas, making it an IMG-friendly option. Being a competitive program, candidates are encouraged to showcase their clinical proficiency through exceptional scores in standardized exams such as the USMLE.
Application Requirements
Applicants should be aware of specific requirements including submission of a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, and letters of recommendation. The program accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) and typically reviews candidates based on their academic achievements, clinical experiences, and overall fit for the program.5
Overall, Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University offers a robust training program in Urology that emphasizes comprehensive clinical exposure, research opportunities, and supportive resident experiences, making it an ideal choice for aspiring urologists.
Website
Director
Kurt A McCammon, MDUrology Residency Program Director Appointed Since July 2006Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,009First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
20 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Virginia Beach, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
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Living in Virginia Beach, VA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Virginia Beach is generally considered a safe city with a below-average crime rate. It has a well-equipped police department and a strong sense of community safety.
- Fun Activities: Living in Virginia Beach offers access to beautiful beaches, water sports, vibrant boardwalks, cultural events, and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
- Climate: The climate in Virginia Beach is moderate with hot summers and mild winters. It experiences all four seasons, giving residents a variety of weather throughout the year.
- Races and Population: Virginia Beach is a diverse city with a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural experience. The population is growing steadily due to its attractive lifestyle.
- Education: Virginia Beach offers excellent educational opportunities with well-rated schools and access to higher education institutions, including universities and colleges.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Virginia Beach is slightly higher than the national average, but it offers good value for the quality of life and amenities available.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Virginia Beach is within driving distance to Norfolk, which is approximately a 30-minute drive. Norfolk offers additional cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, diverse community, good educational facilities, moderate climate.
- Cons: Slightly higher cost of living, limited public transportation options.
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