Residency Advisor

Rush University Medical Center Program

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Chicago, IL

Specialty:

Ophthalmology

ACGME Code:

2401611050
J1 H1B F1

The ophthalmology residency at Rush University is a three-year, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited program focused on training residents to deliver comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide range of eye diseases. With a small cohort of three residents admitted each year, the program emphasizes a unique continuity-of-care experience where residents can follow their patients throughout their training. This opportunity is complemented by a supportive family atmosphere fostered by both faculty and fellow residents 1.

Residents at Rush gain substantial hands-on experience, averaging 500 procedures per resident, of which approximately 200 are primary cataract surgeries. The program benefits from a diverse patient population, which encompasses various cultural, ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, thereby providing residents with a rich clinical experience from the surrounding Chicago area 1.

Training Structure

Rush University employs a comprehensive training approach that integrates a pre-ophthalmology internship year into the residency program. The curriculum is designed to enhance both medical and surgical competencies, providing residents with opportunities to learn under the supervision of dedicated faculty composed entirely of private practice ophthalmologists. These instructors ensure that guidance and mentorship are readily available at all stages of the residents' education 1.

Moreover, residents are required to undertake a structured research project to be presented at the annual Resident & Alumni Day conference. This project encourages academic discourse and the pursuit of publication opportunities 1.

Didactics and Educational Support

The educational structure also incorporates extensive didactic components, with Wednesday afternoons dedicated to resident education, ensuring no clinic responsibilities during this time. Monthly grand rounds and regular journal clubs across subspecialties such as neuro-ophthalmology and retina further enrich the academic environment 1.

As part of the Chicago Curriculum in Ophthalmology, from September through May, residents collaborate with other training programs in the city to partake in a series of lectures addressing essential ophthalmic knowledge. Additionally, Rush provides unique access to clinics and elective rotations for other medical students, enhancing the overall educational experience at the institution 1.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities are integrated throughout the residency, although extensive research experience prior to residency is not a requirement. This encourages participation in clinical studies and presentations at both national and international conferences. The department also co-sponsors a two-year fellowship in retina and vitreous diseases, further enhancing the training experience and collaborative environment 1.

Resources and Benefits

Rush University Medical Center prioritizes the well-being and professional growth of its residents, offering competitive stipends and robust benefits. The stipends for residents range as follows: PGY-1: $64,383; PGY-2: $68,611; PGY-3: $70,793; PGY-4: $74,430. Additional benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as reimbursements for educational materials and wellness allowances 1.

The program also extends support for international residents, with immigration assistance for those on J-1 and H-1B visas. The International Services office helps to ease the transition into life in Chicago 1.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process for the Rush Ophthalmology residency program is conducted via the Central Application Service at SF Match. All applicants must be in good academic standing and have completed the necessary core rotations. The program welcomes applications from U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or DACA status holders. Notably, the program is recognized for being both competitive and accommodating, reflected in its supportive recruitment of residents from diverse backgrounds, including those from DO and IMG communities 1.

Unique Aspects

The strong mentorship, commitment to resident education, and continuity of care that residents are afforded make Rush a distinctive training environment. The opportunity to become fully integrated with clinical responsibilities from the outset, coupled with the broad exposure to various patient cases, enhances the overall training experience for future ophthalmologists 1.

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Director

Name
Anjali Tannan, MD
Position
Program Director
Appointed Since
  (Since July 2019)

Coordinator

Name
Mrs. Clovina Walker-Knox, BBA
Position
Sr. Residency Coordinator
Email
clovina_walker-knox@rush.edu
Name
Hreem N Patel, MD
Position
Associate Program Director
Email
hreem_n_patel@rush.edu

Program

Program Size

3, 3, 3, 3 (4 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since January 1970

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Training

Fellowship Rate:
14%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.5X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

60 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

16 hours

First Year Salary:

$68,245

First Year Paid Vacation:

20 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Admission

USMLE Step 2 Score:
-
Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1, F1
YOG Cutoff:
-

2025 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights

No 2025 Applicant & Interview Insights available for this program.
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.

USMLE STEP 2 CK Score

No data available for Step 2 CK Score.

COMLEX Level 2 Score

No data available for Level 2 Score.

Location

Chicago, IL

Population
2,746,388
Income
$74,474
Education
45.7%
Employment
64%
Health
8.4%
Age
35
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Rental Prices

Living in Chicago, IL

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    Chicago has areas with higher crime rates, but many neighborhoods are safe. It's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
  • Fun Activities
    Chicago offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, theaters, music venues, and a variety of dining options. There are also beautiful parks and Lake Michigan for outdoor activities.
  • Climate
    Chicago has cold winters with snow and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall are pleasant seasons.
  • Races and Population
    Chicago is a diverse city with a mix of ethnicities and cultures, making it a multicultural hub.
  • Education
    Chicago has several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuous learning.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Chicago is relatively high compared to other cities, especially in terms of housing.
  • Proximity to Bigger Cities
    Nearby bigger cities include Milwaukee, WI (1.5 hours drive) and Indianapolis, IN (3 hours drive).
  • Pros
    Rich cultural scene, diverse population, great food options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Cons
    Higher cost of living, areas with higher crime rates, and extreme weather conditions.

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