University of Miami Hospital and Clinics Program

The University of Miami at Holy Cross General Surgery Residency Program is designed to provide comprehensive training in surgery in a highly supportive clinical environment. Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, this program is a collaboration between the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and the award-winning Holy Cross Hospital, offering advantages from both academic and community perspectives.

Program Overview

This residency program is notable for its balanced approach to surgical training, including exposure to advanced techniques such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Residents gain practical experience not only at Holy Cross Hospital but also through rotations at renowned facilities including the Jackson Ryder Trauma Center and Holtz Children’s Hospital. Such diverse training opportunities equip residents with essential skills and knowledge across various surgical disciplines, enhancing their capability to handle complex medical cases.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum follows a milestone-based strategy, ensuring that residents develop their skills progressively over the five-year training period. Rotation experiences include:

• General Surgery (Holy Cross)
• Surgical Oncology / Colorectal Surgery / Bariatrics (Holy Cross)
• Plastic Surgery / Breast Surgical Oncology (Holy Cross)
• Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (Holy Cross)
• Trauma (Jackson Memorial Hospital)
• Surgical Nutrition (Jackson Memorial Hospital)
• Emergency Medicine (Holy Cross)
• Urology (Holy Cross)
• Burns (Jackson Memorial Hospital)
• Transplant (Jackson Memorial Hospital)
• SICU (University of Miami Hospital)
• Pediatric Surgery (Holtz Children’s Hospital)
• Night Float (Holy Cross Hospital)
• Research Quality and Improvement (Holy Cross Hospital)

This comprehensive rotation structure, alongside hands-on surgical training, prepares residents to perform advanced procedures proficiently, supplemented by access to robotics training as early as their intern year.

Conference Schedule

The educational component of the residency is complemented by a rigorous conference schedule that includes:

• Mandatory weekly didactic series on Thursday mornings, incorporating surgical modules and surgical skills training.
• A residency-wide Journal Club that discusses essential literature and recent advancements.
• Mortality and morbidity conferences designed to evaluate clinical practices and improve recognition of core competencies.
• Professor’s Rounds for case discussions led by senior faculty, providing residents with direct insights from experienced clinicians.
• Business of Medicine conferences that educate residents on health administration and cost-effective practices in medicine.

The conferences foster a collaborative learning environment and encourage active participation among residents, enhancing their educational experience.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities throughout their training, providing opportunities for scholarly publications annually. This focus on research, partnered with quality improvement projects, cultivates an analytical mindset essential for modern surgical practice.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The program welcomes applications from a diverse array of medical schools accredited by both LCME for MD programs and AOA for DO programs. The application process is highly competitive, as the program seeks to fill three categorical positions per year through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP). Candidates must submit the ERAS application along with letters of recommendation, an MSPE/Dean’s Letter, and both Step 1 and Step 2 USMLE/COMLEX transcripts. The program also advocates for applicants to complete a supplemental ERAS application, enabling them to convey additional personal information.

It is essential for applicants to have a solid academic background, as the program maintains high standards and prioritizes candidates who demonstrate strong performance metrics.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship support for international medical graduates (IMGs) who require work visas. This means they typically sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, offering critical support for IMGs seeking to fulfill their residency requirements.

Living Arrangements and Community Environment

Located in a vibrant, coastal area, the program’s hospital is surrounded by numerous residential options, making it convenient for residents to find accommodation in close proximity. Fort Lauderdale features a diverse cultural and recreational environment, allowing residents to enjoy the beach, dining, and local attractions, contributing to a well-rounded lifestyle.