University of Pennsylvania Health System Program
Location:
Philadelphia, PASpecialty:
SurgeryACGME Code:
4404121302NRMP Program Code:
1628440C0, 1628440P0Overview of the General Surgery Residency Program
The General Surgery Residency Program at the University of Pennsylvania Health System is designed to provide comprehensive training for future leaders in the field of surgery. With a long-standing tradition of excellence, this program emphasizes the development of both clinical and research skills among residents. The faculty is dedicated to mentoring trainees as they explore various surgical disciplines, with the goal of maximizing their technical, clinical, and research abilities to ensure they deliver high-quality patient care.
1Residents are integrated into a diverse surgical healthcare team composed of faculty members, specialty residents, fellows, junior and senior general surgery residents, as well as medical students. This environment fosters an educational atmosphere where residents gain extensive exposure, preparing them for independent practice.
1Training Environment
The program primarily operates at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, with residents spending approximately 70% of their training time at this institution. The remaining 30% of training occurs at affiliated hospitals, selected for their unique educational opportunities.
1The integrated hospitals include the Philadelphia Veterans Administration Medical Center, Presbyterian Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Pennsylvania Hospital. This structure allows for a robust exposure to a wide variety of surgical cases and specialties, offering residents hands-on experience in diverse clinical settings.
1Curriculum and Rotations
The residency program spans seven years, including a core curriculum that encompasses all major areas of general surgery. Key components include preoperative, operative, and postoperative patient care, alongside rotations in subspecialties such as Gastrointestinal Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Trauma Surgery, and Transplantation Surgery.
1Residents gain exposure to complex cases and advanced surgical procedures, often ranking at the 90th percentile nationally in terms of case complexity, including procedures like esophagectomy and renal transplantation.
1Didactic and Research Opportunities
The program places a strong emphasis on academic development, providing a variety of didactic training sessions, including weekly Grand Rounds and case management discussions. Additionally, it offers a focused surgical skills curriculum through the Measey Surgical Skills Suite, specifically designed for resident training.
1Most residents engage in 2-3 years of dedicated research following their third clinical year, guided by faculty mentors. This commitment is reinforced by the robust research infrastructure at the Perelman School of Medicine, which received substantial funding for surgical research initiatives.
1Research Focus
Research opportunities within the program are extensive, covering a diverse range of surgical specialties. Residents are encouraged to develop their research proposals and seek funding, fostering an environment that emphasizes innovation and inquiry in surgical practices.
1Awards and Recognition
The residency program celebrates achievements through a series of awards each year, honoring standout residents and faculty for their contributions to surgical education and practice. Some notable awards include the Jonathan E. Rhoads Research Award and the Keith Reemtsma Surgical Resident of the Year Award.
3Applying to the Program
The application process is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and an overall holistic review of each application is practiced. Critical components of the application include a comprehensive CV, a personal statement, medical school transcripts, USMLE transcripts (with passing scores required by Match Day), and three letters of recommendation, at least two of which must come from surgical faculty.
2International Applicants
International medical school graduates seeking to apply must possess ECFMG certification and should be aware that visa sponsorship is limited to J-1 Visas. Therefore, compliance with ECFMG requirements is crucial for eligibility.
2Competitiveness and Diversity
The program is highly competitive, attracting a remarkable pool of applicants committed to pursuing careers in academic surgery. The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and actively seeks candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment conducive to learning and growth.
2Visa Support
The General Surgery Residency Program at the University of Pennsylvania provides support for J-1 Visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, ensuring they meet all necessary requirements to facilitate their training.
2Unique Aspects of the Program
What distinguishes the General Surgery Residency at Penn Medicine is its strong commitment to developing not just skilled surgeons, but also future leaders in surgical practice through extensive mentorship, robust research opportunities, and a comprehensive program structure that emphasizes both technical proficiency and patient care.
1Website
Director
Major K Lee, MD, PhDProgram Director Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
75hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,965First Year Paid Vacation:
28 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
68%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1628440C0
2024
9 of 92023
9 of 92022
9 of 92021
9 of 92020
9 of 91628440P0
2024
9 of 102023
9 of 92022
10 of 102021
10 of 102020
10 of 10Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.