Summa Health System/NEOMED Program

The Summa Health Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency program is a four-year ACGME-accredited training offered at the Summa Health System in Akron, Ohio. This residency program prides itself on providing a superior level of education by combining the benefits of a prestigious university training with community hospital resources, enabling residents to gain a diverse range of clinical experiences, especially in the context of high clinical volume.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The residency program accommodates a total of 28 residents, with approximately seven new residents accepted each year starting in 2024. Learning begins on the first day for residents, who are engaged in direct patient care with highly skilled faculty, including subspecialists in various areas of obstetrics and gynecology such as maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, gynecologic oncology, and female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery 1. The residents benefit from significant hands-on surgical experience, including training with the DaVinci robotic surgery system and a high laparoscopic surgery rate, which is reported to be three times greater than that of general obstetrics and gynecology hospitals.

Educational Curriculum

The program has a structured curriculum that aligns with the guidelines established by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) to ensure board eligibility. It includes a dedicated educational curriculum focusing on current medical evidence-based practices and preparation for CREOG examinations. The program features a culture of cooperation where attending physicians and residents foster a collegial atmosphere, complemented by engaging didactic sessions that allow for faculty lectures and discussions 8.

Rotations

The residency includes a comprehensive rotation schedule that is designed to expose residents to the full spectrum of obstetric and gynecologic care. Key rotations include obstetrics, benign gynecology, gynecologic oncology, reproductive endocrinology, maternal-fetal medicine, urogynecology, diagnostic ultrasound, and several elective rotations. Additionally, residents will complete two 4-week night float rotations per year during their first three years 8.

Research Opportunities

All residents are required to engage in a research project or scholarly activity prior to graduation. Mentorship from faculty members supports these projects significantly, with dedicated time set aside for project development and discussions related to IRB approvals. Annual presentations of these projects take place at various conferences, contributing to the residents' exposure to research and publication opportunities 18.

Facilities and Resources

Summa Health System is equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning environment of residents, including a dedicated simulation center equipped with advanced teaching tools. The program also boasts a high volume of clinical cases annually, allowing residents to accumulate the procedural experience necessary to ensure proficiency by graduation. Case counts from recent graduates indicate that residents are typically exposed to significant volumes for deliveries and other surgical procedures 8.

Stipends and Benefits

Residents receive a competitive stipend annually based on their postgraduate year level, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes three weeks of vacation, paid time for conferences, health insurance, dental insurance, and numerous wellness initiatives. Additionally, there are provisions for long-term disability insurance and various flexible spending accounts for healthcare costs 20.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

The program is open to both U.S. and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). However, consideration for IMGs is limited to those qualifying for a J-1 visa. All applicants must have completed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 or COMLEX Level 1 and Level 2 examinations with no prior failures. Notably, applicants must not have graduated from medical school more than three years prior to the commencement of the residency training. The selection criteria also emphasize personal qualities such as motivation and integrity, along with communication skills and clinical preparedness 17.

Work Hours and Call Schedule

The residency enforces strict adherence to the ACGME limits on work hours, with an 80-hour work week maximum. This structure includes two night float rotations per year, and weekend call responsibilities typically range from 2-3 times per month when night float rotations are not in effect 8.

Competitiveness and Applicant Considerations

The Summa Health Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency program is regarded as competitive, particularly for U.S. medical graduates. However, the program demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in its recruitment process, thereby being considered friendly to IMGs and DO students.

Living in Akron

Located approximately 35 miles south of Cleveland, Akron provides a welcoming community environment paired with city-like amenities. The area is notable for its rich cultural diversity, recreational activities, and proximity to various major national and local attractions, which helps to enhance the overall residency experience through a balance of professional training and quality of life 8.