Robert Packer Hospital/Guthrie Program

The Robert Packer Hospital/Guthrie General Surgery Residency Program, located in Sayre, PA, stands as a notable option for medical students aiming for a career in surgery. The program has a rich history dating back to 1885, initially serving railroad workers. It has evolved significantly since Dr. Donald Guthrie, a Mayo Clinic-trained physician and surgeon, initiated a surgical education program in 1923. The formal general surgery residency program was established in 1959 and has remained continuously accredited, reflecting a long-standing commitment to surgical education.

The program offers broad and extensive clinical exposure at a Level 1 adult trauma center located in rural northeast Pennsylvania. Residents are exposed to a wide range of surgical cases, from basic general surgery to complex subspecialties like surgical oncology, providing a comprehensive training experience in all traditional areas of general surgery. This large and diverse patient base ensures residents encounter a vast array of pathologies and surgical challenges.

A significant part of the training includes rotations at Geisinger Healthcare System for transplant and pediatric surgery during the PGY-2 and PGY-3 years. Additionally, residents have opportunities for individual select rotations at other medical centers to pursue specific interests, enhancing the program's appeal by allowing tailored learning experiences.

The curriculum integrates formal didactic teaching with the latest surgical techniques, including advanced laparoscopic surgery, endovascular surgery, and robotic procedures, ensuring residents are well-versed in contemporary surgical practices. The state-of-the-art skills lab, featuring models and simulators, is dedicated to teaching open, laparoscopic, and endoscopic skills, preparing residents for the technical demands of modern surgery.

Research is strongly supported, with The Donald Guthrie Foundation providing resources for residents to engage in clinical research. For those interested in basic science research, collaboration with the Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering at Cornell University offers additional research opportunities.

The program’s mission goes beyond just technical training, aiming to produce highly qualified, compassionate, and competent surgeons who are prepared to lead and serve in their communities. This aligns with the program's aims of teaching, training, and inspiring excellence in its residents. The vision is clear: to prepare graduates not only for board certification but also for highly competitive fellowships and successful careers in surgery.

With a driven mission, comprehensive clinical exposure, advanced training opportunities, and robust research support, the Robert Packer Hospital/Guthrie General Surgery Residency Program presents as an attractive option for medical students committed to a future in surgery.