The Plastic Surgery Program at Tower Health is dedicated to providing comprehensive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. This program emphasizes a balanced approach, incorporating clinical excellence, research, and leadership skills essential for future surgeons.
Curriculum
The curriculum designed by the program integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Residents engage actively in the learning process through a well-rounded educational structure. The program emphasizes the essential foundational principles of plastic surgery, including craniofacial, hand, aesthetic, and breast surgery. Residents are encouraged to participate in various didactic sessions, including weekly conferences, journal clubs, and case presentations, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
Rotations
The rotations are tailored to ensure that residents gain comprehensive exposure to all aspects of plastic surgery. Key rotations include experience in general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and specific plastic surgery subspecialties. Additionally, residents have access to innovative surgical techniques and state-of-the-art facilities, enabling hands-on surgical training under the guidance of experienced faculty. Collaboration with other departments enhances the plastic surgery education by providing a multidisciplinary care approach.
Research Opportunities
The program supports various research initiatives in plastic surgery, encouraging residents to engage in scholarly activities. Residents have access to mentors who guide them in exploring their areas of interest, whether in clinical outcomes, surgical techniques, or innovative procedures. This commitment to research prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to the field through publications and presentations at national conferences.
Training Sites
The primary training site for the program is the Tower Health Medical Center located in Wyomissing, which is equipped with advanced surgical facilities and a high volume of reconstructive and cosmetic cases. Residents also rotate through affiliated hospitals and clinics, broadening their exposure to different patient populations and surgical complexities.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the unique aspects of the program is its commitment to a multifaceted approach to surgical training. The program not only focuses on surgical technical skills but also emphasizes the importance of compassionate patient care and ethical medical practice. Residents are exposed to a diverse patient demographic, allowing them to develop cultural competence and enhance their communication skills.
Competitiveness
The program is known to be highly competitive, accepting a limited number of residents each year. Candidates are evaluated on a comprehensive array of factors, including their medical school performance, letters of recommendation, research experience, and personal interviews. The program is open to both MD and DO graduates, and it values candidates from a variety of educational backgrounds, making it an inclusive environment for international medical graduates (IMGs).
Visa Support
The program offers visa support for international candidates during the application process. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating foreign-trained medical professionals seeking to further their training in the United States.
Application Requirements
Applicants must meet specific requirements, including a maximum allowance of failed USMLE STEP exams. The program generally prefers applicants who have graduated from medical school within a certain timeframe to ensure that they possess recent medical knowledge. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a strong commitment to the field of plastic surgery through relevant experiences and mentorship opportunities.
Conclusion
The Tower Health Plastic Surgery Program aims to develop well-rounded, compassionate surgeons who are prepared to excel in their future careers. Through a comprehensive curriculum, diverse training sites, and a supportive learning environment, residents are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a dynamic and evolving field.
Website
Director
Amir B Behnam, MDProgram Director Appointed Since October 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$73,655First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
West Reading, PA 19611
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in West Reading, PA
West Reading, PA, offers a mix of urban and suburban lifestyle with various amenities and opportunities.
- Crime Rate and Safety: West Reading has a relatively low crime rate, enhancing the safety of its residents.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy local parks, restaurants, and boutiques in the charming downtown area. The Reading Public Museum and the Goggleworks Center for the Arts are popular attractions.
- Climate: West Reading experiences all four seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. The area receives moderate levels of precipitation throughout the year.
- Races and Population: The population of West Reading is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Education: Residents have access to quality education through West Reading's schools and proximity to colleges and universities in the surrounding area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in West Reading is reasonable compared to larger cities, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Nearby Cities: West Reading is close to larger cities such as Philadelphia, which is approximately a one-hour drive away. Philadelphia offers a wide range of cultural activities, dining options, and career opportunities.
- Pros: Charming downtown area, low crime rate, access to quality education, reasonable cost of living.
- Cons: Limited public transportation options, may feel small for those used to larger urban centers.
Interview Questions
