Westchester Medical Center Program

The Surgery Residency Program at Westchester Medical Center aims to train well-rounded, competent general surgeons equipped with the skills necessary for managing complex surgical cases and leading in the field of surgery. The program emphasizes critical thinking, operative skills, and the ability to critically assess the literature, preparing residents not only as surgeons but as future leaders in surgical healthcare.

All residents are integrated into a five-year curriculum which comprises four Categorical and five Preliminary PGY-1 positions. The residency is primarily based at the Westchester Medical Center, which encompasses the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, serving a diverse patient population of approximately four million and acting as the Regional Level-1 Trauma Center for both adult and pediatric patients.

Curriculum Structure

The program's curriculum includes intense rotations through various specialties including, but not limited to, minimally invasive surgery (MIS), transplant surgery, pediatric surgery, thoracic surgery, vascular surgery, trauma surgery, surgical oncology, and hepatobiliary surgery. Residents gain exposure to a comprehensive subspecialty curriculum that complements the core general surgery training, providing extensive educational opportunities that enhance the overall training experience.

Research Opportunities

The Department of Surgery Clinical Research Unit (DSCRU) at Westchester Medical Center is committed to supporting residents in their research endeavors. This program encourages scholarly activity throughout the training period, which is a requisite for all residents. Residents are often connected to a clinical mentor who guides them through research projects and helps enhance their academic profile. Moreover, dedicated research years are available, typically occurring between PGY-2 and PGY-3.

Rotations Overview

Rotations are designed to broaden residents' experience:

• PGY-1: General surgery iincluding acute care surgery, ICU, and various surgical subspecialties.
• PGY-2: Advances into more complex general surgical cases, including thoracic surgery.
• PGY-3: Focus on surgical oncology and vascular surgery with increased responsibilities and autonomy.
• PGY-4: Transitioning into an Acting Chief Resident role, leading a surgical service with senior supervision.
• PGY-5: Chief Resident, responsible for coordinating educational conferences and teaching junior residents.

Educational Conferences

The program includes regular educational conferences that feature morbidity and mortality discussions, basic science, and clinical fundamentals sessions, enhancing residents' learning through hands-on experiences. Surgical skills labs allow residents to practice and master laparoscopic techniques utilizing advanced simulation technology.

Diversity and Inclusion

Westchester Medical Center’s Surgery Residency Program is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The DEI committee actively fosters a supportive environment, hosting various educational webinars and cultural luncheons highlighting the importance of diverse backgrounds and perspectives in healthcare.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is open to international medical graduates and also provides support for J-1 visas for trainees. The Surgery Residency Program is recognized for being competitive; research experience, strong motivation toward a surgical career, and excellent communication skills significantly enhance an applicant’s profile. Candidates should demonstrate emotional maturity, compassion, and a strong commitment to the field of surgery.

Application Requirements

Prospective residents are required to submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Important components include:

• Application form
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcript
• Four recommendation letters
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE)
• ECFMG certification if applicable

Application requirements dictate that candidates pass all parts of the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) on their first attempt and while research experience is not mandatory, it is highly valued.

Quality of Life and Location

Westchester offers a desirable quality of life with a wealth of recreational opportunities, historical sites, and accessibility to New York City. Residents can experience both urban and suburban living, with a range of cultural activities, including sporting events and theaters, as well as natural attractions in the plush Hudson Valley region.