Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Program

Urology Residency Overview

The Urology Residency Program at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) originated in 2014, expanding upon a 50-year history of training clinical fellows and urology residents from partner institutions including the University of Washington and Madigan Army Medical Center. This ACGME-accredited residency program aims to prepare its participants for careers either in clinical urology or academic medicine, focusing on a comprehensive five-year training curriculum. The first year includes both urology and select general surgery rotations to ensure a solid foundation of skills.

Training Structure

Post-Graduate Year 1 (PGY1)

During the PGY1 year, residents will function as categorical urology interns. The training is split between the urology service at VMFH and various general surgery rotations, which encompass vascular surgery, gynecology, hepatobiliary surgery, critical care, emergency medicine, and thoracic surgery. This rotation is designed to build competence in managing clinical urology and participating in surgical cases under supervision.

Post-Graduate Year 2 (PGY2)

The second year focuses on endoscopic surgery techniques and major open surgical procedures, including scheduled kidney transplants. Residents will cover various clinical aspects, starting to see patients directly in clinics and learning diagnostic evaluations, including office cystoscopy and urodynamics.

Post-Graduate Year 3 (PGY3)

In PGY3, the training occurs outside the primary institutional setting, beginning with a three-month stint at Madigan Army Medical Center, with financial support for temporary housing. This rotation provides exposure to busy general urology services and a diverse patient population. The year concludes with specialized pediatric urology training at the Swedish Medical Center, allowing residents to refine their skills in a focused environment.

Post-Graduate Year 4 (PGY4)

Residents in PGY4 experience four different three-month rotations, with a strong emphasis on female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, acute care, and oncology at Tacoma General Hospital. This stage is crucial for honing surgical skills, particularly in robotic surgery, and further solidifying clinical expertise.

Post-Graduate Year 5 (PGY5)

As chief residents, PGY5 participants are tasked with leading surgical operations, overseeing junior members, and managing the inpatient urology service. This role is pivotal for developing leadership capabilities alongside advanced surgical techniques and clinical decision-making.

Research and Fellowship Opportunities

The program encourages residents to engage in clinical research, with faculty participation at various levels. There is also an opportunity for residents to participate in the ACGME-accredited fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery after completion of the residency.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The camaraderie and community within the Urology Section at VMFH are highlighted as a significant aspect of the residency experience. This collegial environment fosters collaboration and support among residents, attending physicians, and fellows.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Eligibility Criteria

Virginia Mason's Urology Residency Program is competitive and requires applicants to hold an MD or DO degree from an accredited medical institution. Applicants must submit a completed MyERAS application, personal statements, transcripts, a dean's letter, and at least three letters of recommendation. Importantly, any previous failures on the USMLE Step I or II may impede consideration for interview selection.

International Medical Graduates

International applicants must hold, or have applied for a valid ECFMG certification for consideration. The program supports visa sponsorship for suitable candidates, enabling international graduates to pursue training in the United States.

Benefits and Support

Residents receive competitive salaries with annual progression based on training level. Additional benefits include meal stipends, parking, provision of uniforms, and an educational stipend for conferences or necessary resources. The program also covers initial licensure fees in Washington and DEA certification, along with support for educational resources like photocopying.