Robert Packer Hospital/Guthrie Program

The General Surgery Residency Program at Guthrie, specifically at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, offers an extensive and rigorous training for medical graduates aspiring to become proficient and compassionate surgeons. Established in 1959, the program builds on a rich history linked to Dr. Donald Guthrie, who initiated surgical education in the area in 1923. The fellowship nurtures residents in a tertiary care Level 1 trauma center, giving them exposure to a broad spectrum of surgical cases, from basic general surgery to complex surgical oncology.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The program consists of eight first-year positions—four categorical and four preliminary—and four positions each year thereafter, culminating in a chief resident year. This structure ensures continuity of training and progression in responsibility. The rotations encompass traditional areas of surgery such as general, vascular, oncologic, colorectal, hepatobiliary, thoracic, acute care, and trauma surgery. Advanced training modalities, including laparoscopic surgery, endovascular surgery, and robotic surgery, are also pivotal components in the curriculum (1).

Clinical Rotations and Didactic Education

Residents primarily engage at the Robert Packer Hospital but also rotate to Guthrie Corning Hospital and Guthrie Cortland Medical Center for community-oriented surgical experiences. The program emphasizes early, hands-on experience in the operating room, beginning from the first year, which is significantly enhanced by resident participation in clinical details and case management at various hospitals within the Guthrie system (2). Dedicated didactic sessions occur weekly, employing the Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) Curriculum alongside lectures and simulation training in a state-of-the-art surgical skills lab.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital aspect of the residency, supported by the Donald Guthrie Foundation. Residents are encouraged to participate in clinical research, with numerous ongoing studies available. The foundation offers financial support for research endeavors, which is crucial for personal development and academic advancement in the field of surgery. Collaboration opportunities with Cornell University’s Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering provide further avenues for research involvement (3).

Benefits and Stipend

As of July 1, 2024, residents receive competitive annual stipends starting at $62,719 for PGY-1 and increasing incrementally each year up to $79,175 for PGY-6. Additionally, residents are allotted funding for educational expenses, which covers medical society dues, conference attendance, and other educational activities. Each resident also receives 20 days of paid time off each year, along with comprehensive health insurance options, dental, life, and malpractice insurance, among other benefits (4).

Application Process and Requirements

For applicants considering the program, the selection process demands passing scores on USMLE Part I and Part II on the first attempt, with a minimum score of 220 on USMLE Part II. Furthermore, applicants should graduate within three years of their application. This program predominantly sponsors J-1 visas, and applicants aiming for H1-B visas must have passed USMLE Step III alongside securing approval from the GME department (5).

Diversity and Inclusion

Guthrie places a strong emphasis on diversity, aligning the recruitment and training of residents with an inclusive approach that fosters learning in a culturally diverse environment. The program actively promotes diversity without discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, or any other personal attributes. It's noted that approximately 33% of the residents are foreign medical graduates, enhancing the multicultural dynamics of the residency experience (6).

Competitiveness and Environment

The General Surgery Residency Program at Guthrie is regarded as highly competitive, with a strong focus on attracting talented medical graduates. The program is known to be friendly towards both DO and IMG applicants, which increases its accessibility for a broader range of candidates. The training environment is distinguished by a commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience in a supportive and cohesive atmosphere, bolstered by faculty who are dedicated not just to teaching but also mentoring residents throughout their journey.

In summary, the Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital’s General Surgery Residency Program offers a robust foundation for those seeking to advance their careers in surgery, grounded in rich educational principles, comprehensive surgical exposure, and a commitment to care excellence.