University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (USC/LA General) Program

The USC/LA General Medical Center Neurological Surgery Program offers a comprehensive training experience with diverse exposure to various training sites, including a public hospital, university tertiary care hospital, cancer center, managed-care community hospital, and children's hospital. Residents gain extensive experience in routine and complex surgical techniques, emphasizing autonomy and clinical leadership.

The program's research program allows residents to pursue flexible research tailored to their interests and career goals. Residents are expected to produce high-quality research, present findings at regional/national meetings, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. Opportunities for external funding and presenting at academic conferences are provided.

The USC Neurological Surgery Program requires a common application form, personal statement, medical school transcripts, dean’s letter, letters of recommendation, photographs, USMLE transcripts, and ECFMG status report for foreign graduates. Virtual interviews are conducted, and applicants are encouraged to explore the program through the website.

The program offers competitive salaries based on PGY level, providing a housing bonus, educational expense reimbursement, meal stipends, malpractice insurance, and health benefits. Residents receive four weeks of paid vacation annually and have access to diverse health plans, graduate-level training opportunities, and free parking at all rotation facilities.

Residents rotate through various facilities, including Los Angeles General Medical Center, Keck Hospital of USC, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, and Kaiser Permanente. Facilities offer diverse patient populations and complex cases, supporting resident training in various surgical specialties.

For residents interested in academic surgery, the program offers a research-focused experience overseen by faculty mentors and opportunities to pursue advanced degrees. The Department actively assists residents in identifying funding sources for research projects, with a focus on heart, lung, vascular, and blood research.

Overall, the USC/LA General Medical Center Neurological Surgery Program provides a unique training experience with extensive clinical exposure, research opportunities, and support for residents' career development in surgery. Applicants are encouraged to explore the program's website for more information.