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

The USC/LA General Medical Center Thoracic Surgery Residency Program offers a comprehensive training experience that exposes residents to various surgical services at different training sites. The program provides residents with a wide spectrum of experiences, including routine and complex surgical techniques like open, laparoscopic, endoscopic, and robotic procedures.

Research opportunities are available for residents to pursue flexible research programs tailored to their career goals and interests. The research program aims to produce high-quality research products that are presented at regional/national meetings and published in peer-reviewed journals. Residents are encouraged to submit their research for competitive extramural funding opportunities.

The application requirements for the program include the common application form, personal statement, medical school transcripts, MSPE/dean’s letter, letters of recommendation, photographs, USMLE transcripts, and ECFMG status report for foreign graduates. While rotating at the program is beneficial, it is not necessary for matching.

Residents in the program receive structured training in the Responsible Conduct of Research and have the opportunity to enroll in graduate-level biostatistics classes. Funding sources are available to support residents' research efforts, including training grants, institutional awards, and divisional funds.

The program provides residents with competitive salaries based on PGY level, a housing bonus, meal stipend, malpractice insurance, free parking, and various health benefits. Residents have access to vacation time, graduate-level training, and support for advanced degrees like MPH, PhD, MSEd, and EdD.

The USC/LA General Medical Center Thoracic Surgery Residency Program offers a diverse training environment at major training facilities like Los Angeles General Medical Center, Keck Hospital, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and Kaiser Permanente, West LA. Residents are exposed to a variety of surgical services during block rotations and have opportunities for specialized training.

The program also provides a unique Reverse Visiting Professorship Opportunity through the Berne Society, fostering professional connections and enhancing the educational experience of PGY3 residents in general surgery. Residents have access to mentorship, research opportunities, and a vibrant surgical community.

For those interested, the program offers a Diversity Sub-Internship Scholarship Award to attract under-represented minority students to its residency program. This award provides a stipend for housing, mentorship opportunities, community volunteering experiences, and exposure to faculty and residents.

Overall, the USC/LA General Medical Center Thoracic Surgery Residency Program offers a well-rounded training experience with a focus on clinical excellence, research opportunities, and comprehensive support for residents' academic and professional growth.