The University of Washington Neurological Surgery Residency Program is a comprehensive seven-year training program aimed at fostering both clinical proficiency and scientific inquiry among aspiring neurosurgeons. This residency program places significant emphasis on mentoring residents to develop into independent investigator-practitioners, integrating hands-on clinical experience with rigorous scientific training.
Program Overview
The curriculum is charted across a structured framework of rotations over multiple years, enveloping clinical training, research immersion, and elective opportunities. Residents undergo a developmental journey starting from the intern year until they reach the chief resident status, acquiring essential skills, knowledge, and competencies tailored to the field of neurosurgery.
During the R-1 year, residents engage in 16 weeks of dedicated neuroscience education, alongside rotations in neurosurgery and-related fields, building a solid educational foundation. The ensuing years (R-2 through R-6) are packed with intensive clinical rotations across various specialty domains, including Trauma, Cerebrovascular, Pediatric Neurology, and Elective services that allow residents to harness a broader spectrum of neurosurgical practice.
1Specialty Areas
The program's faculty covers a wide array of specialties including:
- Neuro-Oncology
- Cerebrovascular Disorders
- Spine and Spinal Cord Disorders
- Pediatric and Congenital Disorders
- Restorative Neurosurgery
This involves rigorous exposure to surgical treatment of epilepsy, stereotactic surgery, and pain management techniques, thus ensuring that residents are adept in all current methodologies while being guided by expert mentors. Such exposure equips graduates with the prowess required to tackle complex neurosurgical cases and elevate the standard of patient care.
1Research Opportunities
The program celebrates research as a dynamic component of residency. Every resident is afforded an entire year (R-4) dedicated to research, facilitated by collaborations with observing faculty and departments within the University of Washington. Involvement in various research projects allows residents to contribute meaningfully to advancements in neuroscience.
The Department actively supports residents in pursuing grant funding and scholarly activities, while residents are also encouraged to present findings at national and international scientific forums, ensuring that they not only become clinicians but also innovators in the field.
1Clinical Facilities
Training occurs at four renowned health care facilities, each providing unique learning experiences:
- Harborview Medical Center: The only Level 1 trauma center in the WWAMI region, offering residents exposure to high-acuity trauma cases.
- University of Washington Medical Center: Renowned for its neuro-oncology and comprehensive care capabilities, providing diverse and complex case load.
- Seattle Children's Hospital: Focused on pediatric neurosurgery, providing extensive experience in the management of congenital conditions.
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System: Offers insights into the care of veteran populations and the administrative aspects of healthcare delivery.
Selection Process
The application process is structured and competitive. Prospective residents must have passed USMLE Step 2 before matriculation and demonstrate above-average performance in clinical and basic science assessments, with holistic evaluation in their application. The program welcomes both U.S. and international medical graduates, offering visa sponsorships for H-1B and F-1 OPT categories for suitable candidates.
Visiting students are also encouraged to apply for clerkships that can further enhance their candidacy, though it is not a strict requirement for matching.
3Living in Seattle
Living in Seattle provides residents with a vibrant lifestyle complemented by extensive outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a population that values education. From hiking and skiing in the nearby mountains to enjoying city life at Pike Place Market, residents benefit from a well-rounded living experience that enriches their training journey.
4Stipends and Benefits
Residency at the University of Washington includes competitive stipends, comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance coverage. Residents also receive professional development funds for books and conferences beyond the minimum requirements, promoting continuous learning and professional growth throughout their training.
5Website
Director
Richard G Ellenbogen, MDProgram Director, Department Chair, Professor Appointed Since July 2002Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$76,032First Year Paid Vacation:
28 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
17 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1, F1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1918160C0
2024
4 of 42023
3 of 42022
3 of 32021
3 of 32020
3 of 3Location
Seattle, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Seattle, WA
- Climate: Seattle has a mild, temperate climate with relatively cool and wet winters and warm, dry summers. It's known for its frequent rainfall and overcast skies.
- Population: Seattle has a diverse population with significant Asian, Hispanic, and African American communities.
- Safety: Seattle has a moderate crime rate compared to other U.S. cities of similar size. The city is generally considered safe, but like any urban area, caution should be exercised, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Cost of Living: Seattle has a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. However, salaries in the area are generally higher to compensate.
- Education: Seattle is home to a number of prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Washington and Seattle University.
- Activities: Seattle offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and water sports. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and a wide range of dining options.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia, are relatively close to Seattle. Portland is about 2.5-3 hours away by car, while Vancouver is about 2.5-3.5 hours away depending on traffic.
- Pros: Seattle is a tech hub with a strong job market in various industries, beautiful natural surroundings, a lively food scene, and a strong sense of community.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, and frequent rainfall may be viewed as drawbacks for some individuals.
Interview Questions
