UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Neurological surgeryACGME Code:
1602400133NRMP Program Code:
3050160C0UMass Chan Medical School offers a comprehensive Neurological Surgery Residency Program designed to provide residents with a broad foundation in neurological surgery while also fostering their development as successful scientific investigators or educators in the field. The commitment to nurturing the next generation of neurosurgeon-scientists and educators forms an essential aspect of the program, and clinical training takes place across the University and Memorial campuses of UMass Memorial Medical Center, the principal hospitals affiliated with UMass Memorial Health.
The residency provides an in-depth clinical training experience covering all major areas of neurological surgery. This includes neurosurgical oncology focused on pituitary and skull base tumors, primary brain and spinal tumors, and metastatic diseases. Other pivotal training areas include epilepsy surgery, cerebrovascular surgery encompassing both extracranial and intracranial microsurgery as well as endovascular surgery, spine and peripheral nerve disorders, neurotrauma, pediatric neurosurgical disorders, stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, radiosurgery, and much more. The multifaceted scope of training arms residents with the necessary experience to tackle complex cases encountered in practice and research.
Moreover, the program allocates two years specifically for research pursuits, allowing residents to delve deeper into specific clinical areas or pursue additional postgraduate degrees such as an MBA, MPH, or MHA. This unique structure equips residents not only with extensive clinical training but also with a strong research background essential for future advancements in the field of neurological surgery 7.
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum comprises a blend of rigorous surgical training with innovative educational approaches meant to support independent learning and integration of knowledge. Residents engage in a general surgery internship prior to specialized training in neurological surgery, ensuring that they have a solid foundation in surgical principles and practices.
Rotations are carefully designed to allow residents to gain exposure across various subspecialty areas, including geriatrics, pediatrics, and complex spine disciplines. Such extensive exposure is fundamental for developing diverse competencies needed in neurosurgery and understanding the nuances involved in treating varied neurological disorders. In addition, with the emphasis on hands-on experience, residents are gradually introduced to surgical procedures under the direct supervision of skilled faculty members, enhancing their practical skill set.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the program, and the residency offers an array of opportunities that encourage residents to participate in groundbreaking projects addressing current gaps in neurosurgical practice. Faculty research interests encompass a wide range of areas including hydrocephalus, brain tumors, cerebrovascular disorders, epilepsy, and pediatric neurosurgery. Such initiatives not only contribute to the scientific knowledge base but also allow residents to engage in investigations that may yield transformative practices in patient care.
Unique Training Aspects
The residency program places significant emphasis on the development of leadership and educational abilities within its residents. This commitment aligns with the program's overarching goal of producing the next generation of leaders within the field of neurological surgery. The program encourages residents to partake in educational conferences, contribute to teaching opportunities for medical students, and engage in community outreach initiatives. This holistic approach to training fosters a well-rounded educational environment, enhancing both clinical competency and interprofessional collaboration skills.
Visa Support
UMass Chan Medical School actively supports international medical graduates seeking residency training in neurosurgery. The program offers visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types, providing options that cater to international applicants. This inclusion reflects the program's dedication to diversity and its commitment to welcoming various educational backgrounds into its training pathways.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Neurological Surgery Residency at UMass Chan is known to be highly competitive, attracting a talented pool of applicants from various educational backgrounds, including Osteopathic (DO) graduates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program takes pride in its inclusive application process while maintaining high standards. Special application requirements include being a graduate within a specific timeframe to ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the specialized training involved. Additionally, the program may impose limits on the number of failed STEP exams acceptable for consideration, ensuring that candidates exhibit a proficient level of understanding crucial for residency advancement 8.
Website
Director
Mark D Johnson, MD, PhDProfessor and Chair of Neurological Surgery, Tumor, Program Director and Site 1 Director Appointed Since July 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,940First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
15 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
3050160C0
2024
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1 of 1Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
