Old Dominion University Program

The Vascular Surgery Integrated Residency at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University offers a well-structured five-year training program. This program is designed to equip residents with comprehensive knowledge and skills, thereby preparing them to become capable vascular surgeons.

The program benefits from an established reputation in vascular surgery education and has a strong commitment to addressing healthcare disparities while advancing medical training.

Curriculum Overview

Residents are exposed to a robust curriculum consisting of 21 months of core surgical rotations followed by 39 months focusing exclusively on vascular surgery services. The curriculum is designed to train residents to make ethical decisions, manage complex surgical conditions based on clinical knowledge, utilize essential surgical skills, and collaborate with healthcare professionals effectively. By the completion of the program, residents will be expected to have significant experience in a variety of areas including non-invasive vascular diagnostics, open vascular surgery, and critical care principles specific to vascular patients 1.

Rotation Structure

The residency offers a diverse rotation schedule. During the first year (PGY-1), residents will spend three months focused on vascular training at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and nine months on core surgery rotations, which include pediatric and trauma surgery. The subsequent years continue to build on this foundation, involving extensive hands-on experience and responsibilities, culminating in chief-level vascular responsibilities in the final year 8.

Research and Conferences

The program emphasizes scholarly pursuits through research opportunities and regular attendance at conferences. Educational activities include Grand Rounds, multidisciplinary tumor boards, mortality and morbidity conferences, and surgical skills labs. These conferences foster an environment of continuous learning and critical evaluation of surgical practices 6.

Training Sites

Training occurs at several key sites, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a Level I trauma center known for its diverse surgical cases and a specialized care environment. Additional training sites include Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of The King's Daughters, providing residents with exposure to various patient demographics and surgical complexities 5.

Resident Wellness Program

The program endorses resident well-being through its Wellness Works initiative, providing resources like counseling services, support groups, and wellness coaching. This program aims to support residents academically and personally, recognizing the intense stresses that come with medical training 2.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The Vascular Surgery Integrated Residency is supportive of international medical graduates (IMGs) and sponsors the J-1 visa. Residents are expected to possess prior U.S. clinical experience, demonstrating the program's commitment to fostering a diverse training environment. The application process is competitive with a preference for candidates who exhibit a solid work ethic, resilience, and a keen interest in vascular surgery 4.

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants are required to submit completed applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Components of the application must include a Dean's letter, transcripts, three letters of recommendation, USMLE Step 1 scores (with Step 2 preferred), and a personal statement. The residency maintains a review process, and interviews are offered only to selected applicants. The program seeks two residents annually, contributing to its competitive nature 3.

Stipend Rates and Benefits

The residency provides a competitive stipend, including health insurance, dental insurance, and professional liability coverage at no cost to the resident. Trainees also have access to wellness and health programs to support their work-life balance, with specific provisions for vacation and sick leave 7.