University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine Program

The program in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center / College of Medicine offers a comprehensive training environment recognized nationally as a leading program in dermatology. The curriculum integrates a range of clinical and didactic learning experiences designed to prepare residents for successful careers in dermatology and micrographic surgery.

Program Overview

The Dermatology residency program, directed by accomplished faculty, maintains a 100% pass rate on board examinations over the past two decades. The program includes an ACGME-accredited Micrographic Surgery & Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship, allowing for postgraduate opportunities in specialized areas. Residents are exposed to a diverse patient demographic across a 100-mile radius, including populations from Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, ensuring a rich breadth of clinical experiences with over 40,000 patient visits each year for both primary care and specialized dermatological services 1.

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

The residency training consists of structured rotations in various settings. The first year (PGY-2) includes one or two months focused on inpatient consultations, with subsequent time allocated to outpatient clinics at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, the VA Medical Center, and other affiliated sites. There are dedicated rotations in dermatopathology and dermatologic surgery, including Mohs surgery, which is crucial for those pursuing careers in micrographic surgery.

The second year (PGY-3) continues to build upon inpatient consultation experiences and expands outpatient responsibilities, allowing residents to maintain continuity of care with their patients. Advanced training in dermatopathology is also emphasized during this year, along with additional surgical exposure.

By the third year (PGY-4), residents have the opportunity to engage in elective rotations that can include specialties such as burn therapy and plastic surgery, along with research opportunities that often lead to multiple publications during training. Residents receive extensive hands-on training in both surgical and cosmetic dermatology, ensuring they have a robust skill set upon graduation 2.

Didactic Education

Didactic components of training include grand rounds, journal clubs, and specialized lectures. Grand rounds feature complex cases where residents actively contribute to diagnosis and management discussions. The program attracts noted national dermatologists as guest speakers and conducts various educational sessions focused on topics relevant to dermatology. Regular journal clubs facilitate the review of current literature from top dermatology journals, fostering critical awareness of new findings and techniques in the field 3.

Research Opportunities

The program supports various research endeavors, offering residents the chance to engage in laboratory or clinical projects. Faculty mentorship in research allows residents to explore specific areas of interest within dermatology, further enhancing their educational experience and professional development.

Application and Competitiveness

The application process requires candidates to submit through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), compiling necessary documents such as a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. International medical graduates must include their ECFMG certificate as part of the application process. Applications for the program are typically considered highly competitive, with a holistic review approach to selecting candidates. Specific eligibility criteria, such as no more than one failed Step exam and a graduation year guideline, may apply 4.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates, including J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating participation in the residency and fellowship programs for qualified candidates.

Living in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is noted for its vibrant community, featuring a range of cultural, recreational, and social activities. From urban hotspots to family-friendly attractions, residents and students appreciate the city's combination of historical significance and contemporary amenities, making it a desirable location to live and train 5.