University of Alabama Medical Center Program

The University of Alabama Medical Center's General Surgery Residency Program provides comprehensive clinical training at a prominent, level-one trauma hospital, UAB Hospital, which is the third-largest public hospital in the U.S. This residency program is designed for aspiring surgeons who seek extensive operative experience and are eager to participate in cutting-edge training opportunities.

Training Facilities

Training is conducted at multiple facilities located within downtown Birmingham as part of the UAB Medical Center District. These include:

• University Hospital
• The Kirklin Clinic
• Birmingham Veterans Administration Medical Center
• Children’s Hospital of Alabama
• UAB Highlands Hospital

Collectively, these facilities offer a diverse range of clinical experiences, ensuring that residents obtain a well-rounded surgical education. Each year, more than 40,000 operative procedures are performed at UAB, granting residents substantial operative exposure with an average of approximately 1,390 cases logged during the residency period 1.

Curriculum Overview

The General Surgery Residency at UAB spans five clinical years and incorporates eight categorical positions annually through the National Residency Matching Program. During the first year (PGY-1), residents rotate through various hospitals, developing skills in patient management, and performing operations on a level-appropriate basis. This year involves a considerable breadth of training, with the average resident logging about 100 major cases 1.

The subsequent years (PGY-2 to PGY-5) progressively increase the responsibility and complexity of the cases handled by residents. PGY-2 residents begin to manage critically ill patients, while PGY-3 residents take on roles with higher autonomy and begin to lead teams on complex surgical procedures. PGY-4 and PGY-5 years focus on specialization and leadership development, culminating in chief resident duties which include significant operative independence and decision-making responsibilities 1, 3.

Research Opportunities

For those residents wishing to pursue academic surgery, the program offers opportunities for research, including mentorship in various fields such as surgical oncology, health services research, and basic science. Residents have the option to undertake two years of research without clinical duties between their residency years, affording them the chance to deepen their scientific expertise and contribute to significant advances in surgery 6.

Focused Competencies

As an ACGME-accredited program, the curriculum is built around essential competencies designed to develop well-rounded surgeons. This includes cultivating compassion in practice, effective communication skills, professionalism in patient care, and systems-based practice awareness 10, 15.

Global Exposure and Unique Training Experiences

The residency program encourages international training opportunities and extensive robotic surgery training, thus giving residents a vital edge in the modern surgical landscape. Moreover, UAB participates in various professional and academic networks that foster an environment of continuous learning and leadership in surgery 1, 4.

Application Process and Requirements

UAB’s General Surgery Residency program conducts a holistic review of applications, emphasizing specific characteristics such as academic focus, resilience, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity. Each year, eight categorical positions are offered, including those specifically for military applicants and a specialized Cardiothoracic Integrated Pathway 2.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) require a valid ECFMG certificate and must have graduated from medical school within the past five years. The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas for eligible applicants 14. Applicants must submit a personal statement, CV, and official board scores among other essential documentation by a specified deadline, typically aligned with the application cycle for residency positions 11. The program is competitive but is noted for being friendly to both DO and IMG applicants.

Conclusion

The UAB General Surgery Residency Program is designed for medical students who are passionate about pursuing a substantive surgical career, providing a robust educational environment, extensive clinical exposure, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.