Rush University Medical Center Program

The Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency at Rush University Medical Center is a comprehensive six-year training program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This residency program provides a strong foundation in all aspects of plastic and reconstructive surgery, ensuring residents are well-prepared for a successful career in clinical practice or academic medicine. Starting in the first year, residents are immediately immersed in plastic surgery rotations, gaining a solid base of core surgical skills.

The curriculum encompasses a range of experiences across multiple healthcare settings. Residents will train at Rush University Medical Center, John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital, Cook County Hospitals, RUSH Hospital Oak Park, and in private practices focusing on aesthetic surgery. This diverse training environment allows for a rich educational experience, where residents engage in pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative management while learning directly from skilled faculty who specialize in various surgical disciplines.

Rotation Information

The residency structure begins with a robust introductory year (PGY-1) featuring rotations in general plastic and reconstructive surgery, vascular surgery, pediatric surgery, surgical oncology, and various other surgical disciplines, including anesthesia and dermatology. Each subsequent year builds on this foundational knowledge, progressively increasing clinical responsibilities and technical skills.

Residents in the second year (PGY-2) immerse themselves further into surgical environments, enhancing their technical skills and understanding of surgical planning. The focus shifts to complex patient management during the third year (PGY-3), allowing for increased autonomy and direct involvement in critical surgical cases. The final years (PGY-4 to PGY-6) transition into full-scope plastic surgery practice, where residents take on leadership roles, refine their skill set, and prepare for independent practice.

Curriculum and Didactics

Concurrently, the residency places a heavy emphasis on academic education through weekly conferences that include didactic lectures, case presentations, and journal clubs to foster critical thinking and collaborative learning. Moreover, residents participate in laboratory skills training including multiple anatomy labs and workshops, ensuring a hands-on approach to learning complex surgical techniques. This blended approach aids in preparing residents for board certification examinations and future clinical challenges.

Research Opportunities

Research is a crucial component of the training at Rush. The Division actively encourages residents to engage in clinical and translational research projects across various subspecialties of plastic surgery, including gender affirmation surgery, breast reconstruction, and wound healing. There are also opportunities for medical students to participate in research initiatives through funded positions that typically last one to two years.

Unique Program Features

One of the distinguishing aspects of the program at Rush is its commitment to professional development and leadership formation among its residents. The curriculum is designed to foster not only surgical proficiency but also ethical practice and professionalism, shaping participants into leaders in the medical community.

Resident Benefits and Salary

Residents at Rush University receive a competitive salary and benefits package that includes stipends for educational expenses, health insurance, parking, and wellness services. Each resident is allocated time and funds for continuing education opportunities, conference attendance, and research, which further enriches their residency experience. Additionally, there are provisions for vacation and time off to ensure work-life balance.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is competitive in nature, as it recruits two residents per year. The selection process favors individuals with strong academic backgrounds and personal characteristics that align with the program’s mission. Importantly, the program does not sponsor J-1 visa applicants but welcomes graduates from LCME-accredited programs.

Living in Chicago

Chicago presents a vibrant backdrop for residency at Rush, combining a thriving urban lifestyle with rich cultural experiences, diverse culinary scenes, and a multitude of recreational activities. Residents often enjoy local events, sports, and the beautiful landscapes of the city, contributing to an overall enriching living experience during their training.