Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program

Overview of the General Surgery Residency Program

The General Surgery Residency Program at Virginia Commonwealth University Health System offers a comprehensive and rigorous training experience designed to develop residents into proficient surgeons. The program emphasizes a strong clinical foundation coupled with an evidence-based medicine approach. Residents benefit from a supportive faculty committed to mentoring and teaching, ensuring that each resident achieves their professional goals

Residents participate in a robust didactic curriculum, with dedicated time for educational activities such as Grand Rounds and case conferences. This includes protected time on Thursday mornings for resident-led didactics, offering an opportunity for residents to engage actively in their learning and contribute to peer education. The program also emphasizes ongoing preparation for board examinations, facilitated by Chief Resident-led review sessions

Clinical Experience and Rotations

The clinical training occurs at VCU's main downtown campus, which is a Level 1 trauma center, illustrating the program's commitment to comprehensive surgical education. The campus houses over 800 beds and handles numerous trauma cases annually. During the residency, participants rotate through various surgical specialties, including acute care, transplant, colorectal, and trauma surgery, among others

The PGY-1 year focuses on foundational surgical skills and includes rotations across multiple services such as VA General Surgery and Trauma Surgery. As residents progress, they enter the operating room as early as the first year, allowing them to log approximately 100 cases by the end of the PGY-1 year. This hands-on experience accumulates as residents approach the PGY-5 year, where they may exceed 1,200 surgical cases, preparing them for fellowship opportunities or independent practice

Training Sites

The primary training site is VCU Medical Center, accompanied by rotations at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond and the Central Virginia VA Medical Center. These sites provide diverse experiences, allowing residents to manage pediatric surgical cases, engage with a high volume of surgeries, and work alongside multidisciplinary teams in various settings, including outpatient and community hospitals

Research Opportunities

Residents have the option to dedicate one or two years to research during their training. This includes opportunities for experiences in various fields, such as basic sciences or clinical research. The program encourages residents to engage in quality improvement and global health research efforts and even complete a Master’s in Public Health

Application Process and Requirements

The application process requires submission through the ERAS system, with specific documents such as a medical school transcript, three letters of recommendation, and USMLE scores. An emphasis is placed on applicants having a minimum of three months of clinical experience in the U.S. or Canada. The program only accepts J-1 Visas for international medical graduates, and they do not sponsor H-1B Visas

To be eligible for ranking in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), all applicants must pass USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK by specific dates above. The program allows recent graduates, generally within four years, to apply, indicating a focus on fresh graduates and those with directed clinical experience

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

VCU Graduate Medical Education prioritizes fostering diversity and inclusion within its residency programs, believing that a diverse cohort enhances patient care and educational experiences. This commitment is reflected in initiativesaimed at creating equitable opportunities for all applicants and residents

Salary and Benefits

Residents at VCU are provided with a competitive salary and a package of benefits, including generous vacation time, medical and dental insurance, and an educational fund for resources and conferences. Additional benefits include subsidized parking, access to recreational facilities, and resources for family care, reflecting a commitment to resident well-being both professionally and personally

Living in Richmond

Richmond, Virginia, presents an appealing environment for residents with its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The city's cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other major U.S. cities, making it an attractive location for residents and their families

Overall, the VCU General Surgery Residency Program equips residents with the skills and experiences necessary to excel in their surgical careers. With a commitment to education, supportive faculty, and diverse clinical exposure, the program stands out as a robust option for aspiring surgeons.