Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

Overview of the Program

The Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital/St. Louis Children’s Hospital (B-JH/SLCH) Consortium Program in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery offers two residency tracks to equip trainees for a successful career in the field of otolaryngology. The Clinical Residency Program, which spans five years, provides comprehensive training in all subspecialties, while the seven-year Physician-Scientist Training Program combines clinical training with protected research time.

Residents experience an inclusive and supportive culture, enhanced by access to extensive clinical exposure and leading-edge educational technologies.

Training Tracks

Clinical Residency Program

This five-year program emphasizes the development of skilled otolaryngologists, with a strong focus on clinical and surgical patient care. The residents engage in high-volume, complex surgical cases and benefit from a technology-rich learning environment, featuring multidisciplinary teams that collaboratively address intricate patient care challenges. Additionally, the program includes a structured core curriculum supplemented by various conferences to enhance learning opportunities.

Physician-Scientist Training Program

The Physician-Scientist Training Program extends over seven years and is tailored for individuals intending to pursue academic research careers in otolaryngology. The program uniquely combines clinical responsibilities with dedicated research time, funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health. It features a distinct research block where residents participate in mentored research while developing essential skills in critical thinking, experimental design, and grantsmanship.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency incorporates a variety of rotations and structured educational components. In the first year, residents complete six months of ACGME-approved rotations outside of otolaryngology, which includes an intensive care rotation. The remaining six months are dedicated to otolaryngology-specific rotations. Throughout the residency, trainees undergo a rotating core curriculum that presents a comprehensive overview of essential topics in the field.

Additional training opportunities include extensive didactic sessions focused on evidence-based practices and critical cases, such as Grand Rounds, Tumor Conference, and various specialty conferences.

Research Opportunities

The program supports residents' involvement in research projects across numerous fields, fostering a strong environment for academic inquiry. Residents have access to a network of established research mentors across Washington University, enabling them to explore an array of subjects within otolaryngology. Essential funding mechanisms, such as the NIH Loan Repayment Program, serve to facilitate trainees’ research endeavors.

Resident Life and Wellness

Washington University prioritizes the well-being of its residents. The program cultivates a balanced lifestyle within a collegial environment, complemented by a ‘night float’ system that condenses clinical responsibilities into manageable blocks. Residents build strong connections within a supportive group, decreasing competitive pressures and promoting collaboration.

St. Louis serves as an enriching location for residents, featuring diverse cultural, recreational, and dining options, as well as an affordable cost of living. The Central West End neighborhood, with its proximity to campus, offers easy access to numerous amenities and attractions.

Application Process and Special Requirements

Applicants may apply to either or both residency tracks via the ERAS system, with specific applications required for each track. The timeline for submitting applications is established yearly, typically with a deadline approaching in late September. It's essential that applications are complete to be considered for the initial review.

For the Physician-Scientist Training Program, applicants are required to submit supplemental documents by a specified date as part of the application process, indicating the program’s emphasis on a well-rounded candidate profile.

Diversity and Competitiveness

The program is highly competitive, drawing both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), making it an attractive option for diverse candidates. The faculty's commitment to inclusivity and equitable training experiences enriches the residency culture.

The Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program in Otolaryngology is well-regarded for producing graduates who excel in their subsequent careers, underscoring the program's strong emphasis on mentorship, skill development, and comprehensive education.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program offers visa sponsorship options for eligible international applicants. It typically supports J-1 and H-1B visas, ensuring that qualified candidates can apply for residency without concerns over immigration status.