University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Program

The Dermatology Residency Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is a comprehensive three-year training program that begins at the PGY-2 level. This program is designed to equip residents with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality dermatologic care and to prepare them for certification by the American Board of Dermatology. The program currently accommodates eleven residents, fostering a close-knit and supportive learning environment.

The program is committed to promoting diversity within the field of dermatology and incorporates cultural and diversity instruction throughout its curriculum. Its goals include providing superior care to the citizens of Oklahoma and nearby regions, ensuring quality education for medical students and residents, and creating a resource for graduate medical education in Oklahoma. The program aims to cultivate a diverse learning environment and emphasizes the importance of diversity in achieving academic excellence 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum encompasses a wide array of dermatological domains including general and complex dermatology, dermatologic surgery, pediatric dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and dermatopathology. Residents engage in various clinic services, including those at the departmental clinic, OUP Children's Hospital, OU Medical Center (OUMC), and the OKC VA hospital. These settings provide both outpatient clinics and opportunities for inpatient consultations 1.

Residents participate in a semi-block rotation schedule, where they spend approximately four weeks in specialized areas such as Cosmetics and Mohs surgery, as well as in a dedicated Dermatopathology block. In addition, they gain experience through rotations in diverse clinics such as the VA transplant clinic, Cutaneous Lymphoma clinic, Complex Dermatology clinic, and Skin of Color clinic. The program also provides ample surgical exposure in non-Mohs procedures at weekly minor surgery clinics in both the OU and VA settings. A unique offering includes a monthly Pediatric Dermatology clinic, staffed by the state’s only board-certified Pediatric Dermatologist 1.

Educational Activities

Educational activities are fundamental to the development of residents in the program. Residents are expected to participate actively in various learning formats, which include daily conferences, Grand Rounds, Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) Conferences, and journal clubs. These forums allow residents to enhance their specialty knowledge and engage in scholarly activities under faculty supervision. Additionally, residents contribute to community service by providing care at the Crossings Community Free Clinic each month, addressing the needs of underserved populations 1.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research is an integral part of the residency program. Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities that include presentations, as well as journal and poster submissions. Participation in state dermatological society meetings and the annual American Academy of Dermatology meeting is required, emphasizing the importance of professional development and contribution to the field 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Dermatology Residency Program is considered to be highly competitive. It is essential for applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria, which may include requirements relating to graduation years and examination performance. Furthermore, eligibility may depend on the successful completion of standardized examinations such as the USMLE or COMLEX, with specific emphasis on performance thresholds 1.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for qualified international medical graduates. It typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing residents to fulfill their training requirements while ensuring compliance with immigration regulations. This support is crucial for attracting a diverse group of residents from various international backgrounds 1.

Conclusion

Overall, the University of Oklahoma's Dermatology Residency Program is dedicated to providing a robust training experience, fostering diversity, and contributing to the field of dermatology through high-caliber education and scholarly activity.