The UMass Chan Medical School Program in Vascular Surgery - Integrated offers a comprehensive and specialized training pathway in the field of vascular and endovascular surgery. The program is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of various arterial, venous, and lymphatic diseases, featuring both traditional open surgical techniques and cutting-edge minimally invasive endovascular approaches. With a commitment to individualized patient care, the program emphasizes thorough medical management, patient education, and structured counseling services to mitigate risk factors associated with peripheral vascular disease.
The leadership of the program is exemplified by its commitment to research, fostering a deep understanding of vascular diseases through a multi-faceted approach that includes clinical trials, basic science, and clinical outcomes research. The associated Center for Complex Aortic Disease is notable for conducting FDA-approved investigational device exemption trials, contributing significantly to the realm of vascular surgery. The program has a robust history of over 60 peer-reviewed publications within the last three years, highlighting the research-oriented environment that residents can expect to engage with during their training 1.
One strong advantage of the vascular surgery program is the tremendous case volume that residents will encounter, with approximately 4000 procedures performed annually. This high volume ensures that trainees gain a diverse clinical experience and becomes well-versed in both open and endovascular procedures. The training is situated within the largest healthcare system in western and central Massachusetts, allowing residents to interact with a wide range of patient populations and clinical scenarios, which together enrich the overall educational experience and prepare them for various career paths, including academic, private practice, and military settings 1.
Research and Clinical Opportunities
Research is a critical component of the training at UMass Chan Medical School. The program encourages residents to involve themselves in quality improvement initiatives and clinical research. By integrating efforts with the Vascular Study Group of New England and the national Vascular Quality Initiative, residents are exposed to real-world applications of their research endeavors while enhancing patient care quality standards 1.
Training Environment
The UMass Vascular Surgery program is structured to foster a supportive and respectful educational environment. Residents are afforded the opportunity to work collaboratively with advanced practice clinicians and a full complement of surgical staff, which is essential for a well-rounded training experience. The emphasis on teamwork facilitates an approach to patient care that is engaging and educational for residents 1.
Clinical Rotations and Educational Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide residents with a balanced exposure across the spectrum of vascular surgery, including rotations in various significant training sites. Each rotation is tailored to promote competency in essential surgical skills and clinical decision-making. The integration of hands-on surgical experience, such as participating in the operating room and outpatient settings, allows residents to gradually build autonomy and confidence in a variety of vascular surgical techniques 1.
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program offers support for obtaining J-1 and H-1B visas for international medical graduates. This inclusion helps to foster a diverse training environment and attract talented applicants from around the globe. However, candidates should be aware that past history of unsuccessful STEP exam attempts may require careful evaluation, and adherence to specific application requirements is essential 1.
Competitiveness
The UMass Chan Medical School Vascular Surgery - Integrated Program is regarded as a competitive residency, aiming to attract strong candidates with robust clinical and academic credentials. The program is welcoming to both DO and IMG applicants, adding to the diversity of the resident cohort that enriches the learning environment 1.
Website
Director
Jessica Simons, MD, MPHProfessor of Vascular Surgery Appointed Since April 2017Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$68,212First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
15 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
200Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
1Match History
3050451C0
2024
2 of 22023
2 of 22022
2 of 22021
2 of 22020
2 of 2Location
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
