Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Otolaryngology Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a robust five-year program that is accredited by the ACGME. This program is designed for medical graduates seeking to advance their careers in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, with an intake of three residents per year. The primary goal of this residency is to develop a comprehensive knowledge base, exceptional surgical skills, and clinical acumen essential for a successful career in this specialty.1

The training program offers an extensive array of clinical exposure, covering diverse areas such as head and neck oncology, pediatric otolaryngology, otology, facial plastics and reconstructive surgery, laryngology, sinonasal conditions, allergic diseases, and endocrine surgery. Residents are actively engaged in patient care from their very first day, fostering a practical and immersive learning environment.1

Training and Rotations

The residency consists of rotations primarily carried out at the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. These facilities offer integrated services, allowing residents to experience inpatient and outpatient care. The first year (PGY-1) includes six months in otolaryngology, alongside rotations in surgical intensive care, anesthesia, neurosurgery, and pediatric surgery, providing a well-rounded foundation.1

From PGY-2 to PGY-5, the residency program emphasizes surgical training across all aspects of otolaryngology. The residents will gain experience in various settings, including both the Hershey Medical Center and specialized outpatient surgical centers.1

Research and Academic Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the program, with structured activities required throughout residency. Each resident must complete at least one long-term project, with three months of dedicated research time allocated during PGY-3. Attending and presenting at professional meetings is encouraged, further enhancing the educational experience.1

Call Duties and Work Hours

Residency call responsibilities involve providing care for in-house consults and emergency room cases. Junior residents typically take in-house calls, while senior residents shift to home call. The program adheres to the ACGME regulations regarding work hours to ensure a balanced workload between clinical duties and personal well-being.1

Wellness and Professional Development

The program places a strong emphasis on the wellness of its residents. Penn State Health and the College of Medicine offer multiple resources aimed at supporting mental and emotional health, reflective of the institution’s commitment to creating a thriving training environment.1

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Penn State Health and the College of Medicine actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within their residency programs. Various initiatives and resource groups are available to provide support and mentorship to under-represented residents and fellows, enabling a culturally competent healthcare environment.1

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, commonly supporting J-1 and H-1B visa types. The residency program considers applicants holistically, examining all elements of the application, although it’s important to note that the program is competitive and has specific requirements regarding U.S. Medical Licensure Examination (USMLE) scores and the number of failed exams.1

Application Process

Candidates must submit an application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including a minimum of three letters of recommendation, USMLE scores, and other supporting documentation. The program emphasizes a thorough review of applicants to identify those best suited to thrive within their training environment.1