Virtua Program

The Virtua General Surgery Residency Program is designed to cultivate highly skilled and knowledgeable surgeons, adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of general surgery. Positioned at the intersection of innovative practices and established traditions, the program benefits from the historical experiences of the Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, which has hosted surgical residents for decades across various surgical services, including general, transplant, and vascular surgery.

Program Overview

The residency program aims to produce outstanding surgeons equipped to handle a wide range of surgical conditions, emphasizing the importance of individualized patient management based on acuity and personal values. Residents are engaged through an extensive array of educational activities that encourage critical thinking, research, and lifelong learning.1

Training Environment

Residents have the opportunity to train at three of Virtua's five hospitals, enhancing their clinical expertise in diverse settings. This includes exposure to an expansive patient population and a variety of surgical specialties, fostering a thorough understanding of the psychosocial and economic factors that affect patient care.1

Curriculum and Rotations

The program's structured curriculum features various rotations throughout the five years of residency. The first year includes fundamental surgical training at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, as well as other facilities such as Marlton and Mount Holly Hospitals. Key rotations include:

• PGY 1: General Surgery (Our Lady of Lourdes, Marlton, Mount Holly), Breast Surgery (Voorhees), Surgery ICU (Cooper University Hospital).
• PGY 2: Colorectal Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, and continued exposure to general surgery and ICU responsibilities.
• PGY 3: Advanced Surgical Techniques including Trauma, Transplant Surgery, and electives.
• PGY 4: Leadership roles in surgical practice, with a focus on complex cases in Pediatric Surgery and Vascular Surgery.
• PGY 5: Chief year, providing experience in managing surgical services across hospitals, leading teams, and overseeing junior residents.

Didactic Learning

Expect a robust didactic curriculum with protected time each Wednesday for skill labs and lectures, covering essential topics aligned with the SCORE curriculum. Weekly grand rounds, journal clubs, and case conferences further enrich learning opportunities and reinforce clinical knowledge.1

Unique Program Strengths

The residency program is particularly notable for its prestigious academic affiliations with Rowan University, facilitating comprehensive skills development and simulation training that enhances residents' clinical acumen. The partnership allows for evolving research opportunities through expanded academic initiatives.1

Applicant Eligibility and Competitiveness

The Virtua General Surgery Residency Program is highly competitive, with specific eligibility criteria including:

• Applicants must possess passing scores on USMLE or COMLEX Steps 1 and 2.
• Graduates must come from LCME-approved medical schools.
• International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must have ECFMG certification.
• Applicants must not require visa sponsorship for work, as the program does not sponsor employment visas.1

While there is no formal requirement for US clinical experience, prior experience in clinical settings is preferred. This competitive nature ensures that the program attracts qualified candidates committed to excellence in surgical education.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages research initiatives and provides residents with time and resources to engage in scientific inquiry, promoting the expansion of surgical knowledge. The mentorship model enables residents to collaborate with faculty members and engage in various research projects that align with their interests.1

Supporting Resident Well-Being

The well-being of residents is a priority for the program, promoting a culture of education over work. This unique supportive environment is tailored to ensure resident satisfaction, well-being, and lifelong learning throughout the residency.1

Living and Working in South Jersey

Residents enjoy the vibrant lifestyle in South Jersey, with easy access to both urban and suburban amenities, local beaches, and an array of recreational activities. The proximity to Philadelphia and New York City adds further appeal to the region for residents and their families.1