Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University Health Program

The Warren Alpert Medical School Department of Surgery General Surgery Residency Program is designed to provide comprehensive training in the field of general surgery, with a goal of shaping proficient clinical and academic surgeons. The program offers a total of seven categorical and up to eight preliminary residency positions, ensuring a robust training environment at esteemed affiliated institutions including Rhode Island Hospital (RIH), The Miriam Hospital (TMH), and Providence Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC) 1. Successful completion of the program qualifies graduates for certification by the American Board of Surgery.

Training in the program encompasses essential components of general surgery as well as exposure to various surgical subspecialties. The training curriculum includes intensive hands-on experience in diverse fields such as gastrointestinal, breast, head and neck, vascular, endocrine, trauma, cardiothoracic, pediatric, transplant surgery, and surgical nutrition. Intern residents are expected to perform approximately 100 surgical procedures in their first year, while chief residents may average around 1,200 cases across their five years of training 1.

Curriculum Overview

The surgical residency program is a five-year curriculum recognized by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Residents participate in a wide array of rotations across distinct hospitals, promoting a well-rounded training experience 3. The program emphasizes not only surgical training but also cognitive, technical, communication, professionalism, and leadership skills essential to a surgeon's practice.

Assessment of residents is undertaken through various milestones aligned with national standards. The curriculum incorporates the Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) framework, covering 28 organ system-based categories relevant to surgical practice 3. Additionally, the program offers two distinct tracks for categorical residents: one focused on academic surgical careers featuring two years of basic science research, and another that completes the categorical program in five years with a focus on clinical outcomes.

Research Opportunities

The program fosters an environment rich in clinical and basic science research. The Department of Surgery is among the most significantly funded and productive research departments within the Alpert Medical School. Residents are encouraged to engage in various research projects, enhancing their academic profiles while developing into well-rounded surgeons 7. A notable award within the department, the Armand D. Versaci Research Scholar in Surgical Sciences Award, provides financial support for residents to embark on research opportunities under expert supervision.

Unique Training Exposure

A key facet of the program includes an international rotation at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya, allowing residents to gain unique insight into managing diverse surgical conditions typically not encountered in the United States 3. This rotation amplifies residents' understanding of global health responsibilities and surgical practice variability.

Application Requirements

The program adheres to a rigorous application procedure via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with a defined submission deadline for categorical applicants set for September 30th 2. For international applicants, specific criteria must be met, including a graduation date within the last five years, a minimum score of 225 on USMLE Step 1, and at least six months of clinical experience in the U.S. Furthermore, proof of ECFMG certification is required prior to ranking 2.

Visa and International Applicants

For international candidates, the program sponsors J-1 clinical visas, providing essential support for qualified foreign medical graduates pursuing training in the United States 2. This aspect underscores the program's commitment to diversity and international collaboration in surgical education.

Competitiveness and Training Environment

The Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University Health Program in Surgery is noted for being highly competitive. Applications from both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs) are strongly considered, with a supportive training environment that welcomes diversity in its residency class. Prior surgical training obtained outside the U.S. is not eligible for credit, reflecting adherence to established ACGME guidelines 2.

Life in Rhode Island

Living in Rhode Island presents a vibrant and enriching lifestyle for residents with its rich cultural and recreational offerings. Providence stands as a cultural hub with ample opportunities for culinary experiences, outdoor activities, and weekend getaways 4. Residents have access to a diverse array of local restaurants, wineries, and recreational locations including beaches, parks, and historic sites.

Salary and Benefits

The residency program offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that encompasses health, dental, and disability insurance coverage, as well as access to wellness programs and on-site facilities 8. These provisions contribute to the well-being and quality of life for residents during their demanding training years.