University of Miami/Jackson Health System Program

Program Overview

The University of Miami/Jackson Health System offers a comprehensive Integrated Residency Program in Plastic Surgery that is designed to equip residents with the required skills and knowledge in preparation for independent practice in the specialty. The training spans six years, during which residents engage in a variety of rotations across multiple healthcare facilities, allowing for a versatile clinical experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

All positions in this program are filled through the National Resident Matching Program, and the program does not offer out-of-match positions. To qualify for enrollment, candidates must fulfill the prerequisites established by Jackson Memorial Hospital, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), and the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Candidates are required to complete their prerequisite training in ACGME-accredited programs, with documentation submitted for approval prior to starting the residency.

Application Requirements

Eligibility for the program includes the successful completion of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Steps 1, 2, and 3 or all steps of the Comprehensive Medical Licensing Examination prior to entry into the program. Applicants should also possess an MD or DO degree from an accredited medical institution. All prerequisite training must be completed from relevant accredited programs, ensuring candidates are thoroughly prepared for the rigorous curriculum ahead.

Curriculum Structure

The six-year curriculum is structured into distinct phases, allowing progressive responsibility and skill development:

Year 1 (PGY-1)

The first year serves primarily as an internship that emphasizes general surgical core specialties, including rotations in burn surgery, general surgery, oncology, and plastic surgery. Residents start developing essential clinical skills while managing surgical patients under supervision.

Year 2 (PGY-2)

In the second year, the experience deepens with additional exposure to general and vascular surgery rotations, pediatric surgery, and ICU training. Residents gain increased autonomy in managing critically ill surgical patients.

Year 3 (PGY-3)

This transitional year enables residents to assume more senior roles, engaging in administrative responsibilities alongside increased plastic surgery exposure. Significant surgical skills development is expected through rotations in areas like vascular and oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Year 4 (PGY-4)

Year four emphasizes advanced training in plastic surgery, primarily at Jackson Memorial Hospital, assisting in complex cases while preparing for greater independent responsibilities.

Year 5 (PGY-5)

The residents in this year experience balanced rotations among the main clinical sites, focusing on intricate reconstructive surgeries and surgical hand skills, alongside pediatric plastic surgery.

Year 6 (PGY-6)

The final year allows residents to act as chief residents, taking on supervisory roles while managing the clinical operations at Jackson Memorial, evaluating surgical candidates, and scheduling surgeries, which serves as a foundational experience for independent practice.

Training Sites

The program provides immersive training at four main healthcare facilities: Jackson Memorial Hospital, Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, and UHealth Tower. Each site contributes unique clinical exposure, particularly in trauma and pediatric surgery, enhancing the scope of surgical experience.

Call Schedule

Residents are required to participate in a call schedule, with the PGY-1 residents limited to no more than every third night on call, as they begin to acclimate to the demands of the specialty. Call responsibilities include providing expert consultation for plastic surgery needs in the emergency and trauma settings.

Research Opportunities

The program highlights the importance of research and encourages residents to engage in scholarly activities to foster innovation and advancements in plastic surgery techniques and patient care.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for eligible candidates, supporting both H-1B and J-1 visa types, ensuring a diverse pool of expertise within the residency cohort.

Competitiveness and Selection

As a highly competitive program, it is essential for candidates to present a strong application. The residency welcomes applications from both MD and DO candidates, including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) who meet the outlined prerequisites.

In summary, the University of Miami/Jackson Health System's Integrated Residency Program in Plastic Surgery is committed to nurturing skilled, ethical, and knowledgeable practitioners of the specialty through a structured and comprehensive training experience.