Still OPTI Program

Overview of the Dermatology Residency Program

The Dermatology Residency Program at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville, Missouri, is a highly regarded ACGME accredited program that also holds recognition from the osteopathic community. Designed to accommodate aspiring dermatologists, the program provides a unique environment for training and holistic patient care.

The program is structured around a two-year residency (PGY-2) and is limited to two applicants per match cycle, ensuring individualized attention and mentoring for each resident. The majority of training occurs within an advanced dermatology facility of 16,000 square feet, which includes seven exam rooms, four surgical suites, a skin spa, and an in-house pathology lab, supporting a robust curriculum.

Curriculum and Rotations

The Dermatology Residency curriculum is comprehensive, emphasizing a balance of didactic learning and practical experience. A detailed weekly didactic schedule entails:

• Monday at 8 a.m. - Basic Science Review from Bolognia
• Tuesday at 7 a.m. - Bolognia/Andrews Review with Residency Consortium
• Wednesday at 6:15 a.m. - Elston Dermatopathology lectures, Drugs in Dermatology training, Grand Rounds, and JAAD (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology) CME Consortium.
• Thursday at 7 a.m. - Various Surgery Topics and Case Reviews
• Friday at 7:30 a.m. - Kodachromes/Cosmetic Workshop

Training Sites

The core training site is well-established in Kirksville, known for its welcoming atmosphere, resulting in positive resident-patient interactions. Additionally, there is a dedicated subspecialty rotation at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, enriching the residents' experience and exposure, particularly for pediatric dermatology.

Research and Unique Aspects

Research opportunities are integrated into the residency program, allowing residents to engage in innovative practices and clinical studies. Interaction with faculty such as Dr. David Cleaver and his team provides insight into both academic and practical aspects of dermatology.

The program prides itself on its rural perspective, providing residents with a diverse range of patient pathologies and a significant number of surgical opportunities, which is paramount for training competent dermatologists in today's healthcare environment.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Dermatology Residency Program is known to be competitive due to its limited slots and high-quality training, attracting a great number of applicants each year. While the program maintains a strong focus on producing well-rounded dermatologists, it is also recognized as being friendly toward osteopathic candidates and international medical graduates (IMGs).

Applicants are encouraged to have a strong academic record, with particular emphasis on performance in clinical rotations and standardized examinations. Specific application criteria may include a set number of maximum failed STEP exams, though this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for qualified international medical graduates, including H-1B and J-1 visa sponsorship, allowing diverse applicants to pursue their training in the United States.

Living in Kirksville

Kirksville offers a unique community experience with local attractions like A.T. Still University, which is the birthplace of the osteopathic medicine movement. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities in Thousand Hills State Park, explore local historical sites, and benefit from a strong educational environment through partnerships with local universities.