University of Hawaii Program

The University of Hawaii Surgical Residency Program offers a comprehensive and dynamic educational environment for prospective surgical residents. This five-year general surgery training program is accredited and provides exposure to diverse clinical settings in Hawaii, encompassing community hospitals where patients are treated by faculty from the University alongside private surgical attending physicians. The program aims to develop residents into highly skilled and compassionate surgeons, through a structured curriculum, ample clinical experience, and innovative training methods.

Training Environment

The surgical training occurs primarily across five community hospitals in Honolulu, which include The Queen's Medical Center Punchbowl, The Queen's Medical Center West O'ahu, Straub Benioff Medical Center, Kuakini Medical Center, and Kapi'olani Medical Center for Women and Children. Each facility offers unique training opportunities and specialty care experiences that prepare residents for their future surgical careers.

Curriculum Overview

The program's curriculum consists of required rotations during the first two years, focusing on both general surgery and subspecialties. As residents progress through their training, they assume increasing responsibility, ultimately leading to their chief year, where they manage patient care and guide a surgical team. Overall, the curriculum emphasizes the integration of knowledge, clinical skills, professional attitudes, and decision-making processes essential for surgical practice.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Residents participate in a variety of rotations that cover critical areas such as surgical critical care, trauma surgery, and other subspecialties like vascular surgery and transplant. For instance, residents complete clinical rotations at The Queen's Medical Center, which is known for being the largest private hospital in Hawaii. This facility is recognized as a leading referral center in the Pacific Basin and is well-equipped to handle a wide range of surgical cases.

During the final years of the residency program, residents may also rotate at North Hawaii Community Hospital, providing additional exposure to varied patient populations and healthcare challenges.

Research and Scholarly Activities

The University of Hawaii program maintains a strong emphasis on research, encouraging residents to engage in clinical and basic science research projects. The training environment often includes mentorship opportunities where residents can collaborate with faculty on various surgical research topics, empowering them to contribute to advancements in surgical practice.

Unique Aspects of the Program

In addition to a robust clinical training experience, the program is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The teaching faculty consists of over 30 academic faculty and 150 private surgical attending physicians, ensuring comprehensive guidance and training for the residents.

The program also places an emphasis on health equity and community service, highlighting the unique cultural aspects of health and patient care in Hawaii. Residents are exposed to a range of communities, learning to navigate the complexity of social determinants of health.

Application Process

Applications to the surgical residency must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Prospective residents will need to submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, medical school transcripts, and documentation of USMLE scores. While the application deadlines typically align with national guidelines, it's important to confirm specific dates. The program is known for being highly competitive, and applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a solid commitment to serving diverse populations.

Visa Sponsorship

The University of Hawaii Surgical Residency Program supports visa sponsorship for J-1 visas only; H-1B visas are not supported. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) applying to the program must possess ECFMG certification for their applications to be considered.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The program seeks applicants with a strong academic background and clinical experience. It's especially friendly to candidates from osteopathic backgrounds and internationally trained doctors. However, applicants must demonstrate resilience, teamwork, and a dedication to healthcare, particularly in the diverse setting of Hawaii.

Graduate Outcomes

A significant portion of graduates from the University of Hawaii Surgical Residency continue to practice in Hawaii, contributing to the local healthcare system. The program emphasizes high educational standards, evidenced by consistently strong board pass rates and successful fellowship placements.

Additional Resources

The program regularly hosts conferences, workshops, and opportunities for residents to engage in scholarly activities, further enhancing their training experience. Additionally, residents may participate in the Annual Hawaii Addiction Conference, providing further opportunities for learning and professional development.