SUNY Upstate Medical University Program

The General Surgery Residency Program at SUNY Upstate Medical University aims to cultivate residents into skilled, compassionate surgeons, equipped to serve diverse patient populations. The residency emphasizes a comprehensive educational experience complemented by opportunities for research, exposure to various clinical conditions, and a supportive learning environment.

Program Structure

The residency program proudly offers a traditional, fully ACGME-accredited general surgery training. It has been sanctioned to maintain six categorical residents per year, fostering a focus on both open surgical procedures and advancements in minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic surgeries. Training occurs primarily on-site at their main institution, University Hospital, a Level I Trauma Center.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured around formal didactic sessions every Wednesday, during which residents are excused from clinical duties to engage in activities such as Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) discussions, Grand Rounds, and core curriculum activities. The program employs an integrated approach aligning its core topics with the Surgery Curriculum Outcomes Reporting Engine (SCORE), which is recognized nationally. As part of the training, residents undergo simulation training in advanced surgical techniques and receive certification in Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS).

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Residents rotate through a variety of surgical disciplines, including Acute Care Surgery, Trauma, Vascular, Colorectal, Pediatric, and Surgical Oncology within four primary hospitals: Upstate Medical University Hospital, Crouse Hospital, Syracuse Veterans Administration Medical Center, and Upstate University Hospital at Community General. The program allows for flexible elective rotations, including opportunities at sister campuses for enhanced training diversity.

Research Opportunities

Research forms an integral part of the residency program. SUNY Upstate encourages residents to participate in research while allowing for dedicated research years if desired. Current research endeavors include basic science laboratories focusing on critical areas such as sepsis and nutrition, with options for residents to engage in clinically oriented projects. Interested residents can also pursue external research experiences, expanding their knowledge and professional networks.

Faculty and Mentorship

Residents benefit from close mentorship by a diverse faculty, which includes full-time university faculty, community surgeons, and specialists from affiliated hospitals. The program prides itself on approachable faculty members dedicated to education, ensuring that residents receive guidance tailored to their career aspirations.

Resident Life and Wellness

Recognizing the demanding nature of surgical training, the program offers a robust wellness curriculum, led by designated wellness champions. Well-being initiatives are integrated into the core curriculum, aiming to foster a balanced lifestyle throughout residency.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

Prospective applicants must have graduated from medical school within the last five years. Candidates are required to submit a completed application through ERAS along with their CV, medical school transcript, USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Level 1 scores, and four letters of recommendation from U.S. surgeons. J-1 visa sponsorship is available for international medical graduates, and previous U.S. clinical experience is mandated.

Competitiveness and Selection Process

The residency program maintains a highly competitive selection process. The program actively encourages diverse applicants, including DOs and international medical graduates, and has successfully integrated them into its training program. The application review is meticulous, ensuring that candidates who best align with the program’s ethos are selected for interviews, which are primarily conducted virtually.

Salary and Benefits

Residents receive competitive salaries approved by the SUNY Board of Trustees along with comprehensive benefits, including health and malpractice insurance. The salary structure anticipates incremental raises over the next several years.

Community and Professional Opportunities

Syracuse, New York, provides a vibrant community with affordable living costs and excellent schooling options. The region supports an active lifestyle with ample outdoor activities and theaters, enhancing the overall residency experience.