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

The University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (USC/LA General) Program offers a comprehensive General Surgery residency program with a rich training experience. Residents rotate through major training sites to gain diverse and extensive clinical exposure. The program culminates in the chief resident year at the Los Angeles General Medical Center, where residents lead various surgical services under attending supervision.

The program emphasizes autonomy, surgical pathology, and disease severity, preparing residents to excel as clinical leaders. It provides a team-based approach to resident education, career development, mentorship, and research opportunities. The program is supported by Dr. Vaughn Starnes, MD, and Dr. Maura Sullivan, PhD, ensuring a structured curriculum integrating clinical experience with the latest educational tools.

Residents have the flexibility to pursue research aligned with their interests and career goals. The program expects residents to present their research at regional/national meetings, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and explore extramural funding opportunities. A dedicated research oversight committee guides residents through the research process.

The USC/LA General program follows the ACGME standards and offers a wide range of research opportunities across different surgical divisions. Residents can choose their research area based on their interests and the available opportunities within the program.

Application requirements include common application forms, personal statements, medical school transcripts, letters of recommendation, USMLE transcripts, ECFMG status reports (for foreign graduates), and other standard documents. The program accepts applications through ERAS and is part of the NRMP matching process.

Residents benefit from a supportive environment with various benefits, including paid vacation, competitive salaries indexed to PGY level, meal stipends, malpractice insurance, free parking, health benefits, and more. The program provides structured rotations at reputable facilities like Los Angeles General Medical Center, Keck Hospital of USC, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, and Kaiser Permanente, West LA.

Overall, the USC/LA General Surgery Residency Program offers a robust training experience with a focus on excellence in producing well-rounded surgeons equipped with clinical skills, research experience, and leadership qualities. It encourages residents to pursue research and academic endeavors alongside their clinical training.