The UW Urology Residency Program aims to recruit highly talented and diverse trainees while providing exceptional clinical and surgical training with the ultimate goal of developing future leaders in urology. This program is dedicated to preparing residents for both general urology practices and specialized fellowship opportunities in various subfields.
The residency comprises two principal tracks:
Residency Tracks
Clinical Track
Length: 5 years
Positions: 2
Clinical Training: Residents will undergo five years of clinical urology training.
Research Training: The program includes dedicated and protected research blocks during the U-3/U-4 years.
Research Track
Length: 6 years
Positions: 2
Clinical Training: Similar to the clinical track, residents will experience five years of clinical urology training.
Research Training: This track includes one year (PGY-4) dedicated to research in addition to ongoing research projects throughout residency.
1Clinical Environment and Rotations
The University of Washington's residency program provides exceptional exposure across various renowned facilities:
- University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC) - A tertiary care center with specialized clinics, including Urologic Oncology and Kidney Stone Center.
- Harborview Medical Center (HMC) - A Level I adult and pediatric trauma center that also addresses genitourinary reconstructive surgery.
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System - This center features the only surgical robot in the region for advanced minimally invasive urology.
- Seattle Children’s Hospital - Recognized among the best in children's hospitals in the nation.
- Alaska Rotation - Senior residents can also gain experience in Alaska through partnerships with local urology practices.
Research Opportunities
The UW Urology Residency Program promotes a strong research environment, integral to training future surgeon-scientists. Residents are encouraged to engage in diverse research projects, including groundbreaking work in urologic technology and cancer research. The department's extensive resources enable collaboration with various institutes including Seattle Children’s Research Institute and the Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center.
1Roles and Responsibilities
Residents progress through stages of responsibility throughout their training:
Interns (U1)
Interns will primarily focus on urology services while also experiencing general surgery and various subspecialty rotations.
Junior Residents (U2-U3)
These residents provide direct patient care and are involved in surgical teams, supporting medical students' educational experiences.
Senior and Chief Residents (U4-U5)
In the final years, residents take on leadership roles, coordinating others and managing clinical responsibilities while achieving significant surgical volumes.
1Application Process
The application for the UW Urology Residency must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Key application requirements include:
- ERAS Application
- Personal Statement
- Three Letters of Recommendation (one from a urologist)
- USMLE Pass/Fail scores (Step 1 at the time of application; Step 2 scores recommended if available)
The program is particularly competitive and considers applications from both DO and IMG candidates. Applicants must have graduated medical school within the last five years and cannot have more than one failed attempt at any Step exam.
4Salary and Benefits
The compensation structure is defined under the University of Washington Housestaff Association collective bargaining agreement. Benefits include a competitive salary, medical, dental and life insurance coverage, retirement plans, and a range of allowances including meal provisions at affiliated hospitals. Residents also enjoy a strong support system focusing on wellness, work-life balance, and family care.
6Visa Sponsorship
The UW Urology Residency Program provides visa support options for international medical graduates (IMGs). The program can sponsor J-1 visas, which allow residents to pursue their medical training in the United States.
1Unique Aspects
Notable features of the UW Urology Program include a comprehensive wellness program administered through the Graduate Medical Education office and a robust simulation curriculum to enhance resident skill acquisition in a controlled environment. The program is also noted for fostering continuity in mentorship and providing ample research opportunities.
1Website
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Director
Judith C Hagedorn, MD, MHSAssociate Professor, Program Director Appointed Since April 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
62hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$76,032First Year Paid Vacation:
28 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
17 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
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.