William Beaumont Army Medical Center Program
Location:
El Paso, TXSpecialty:
SurgeryACGME Code:
4404812009The William Beaumont Army Medical Center Program in Surgery, located in El Paso, offers a comprehensive surgical residency that encompasses a variety of specialties and advanced training opportunities. The program aims to prepare residents by providing them with the necessary clinical and practical experiences needed to excel in surgical practice.
Program Overview
William Beaumont Army Medical Center serves as a tertiary hospital addressing the needs of active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. The facility comprises several major clinical services, including surgery, which is further subdivided into multiple specialty clinics that allow for a broad range of clinical exposure.
1Curriculum and Rotations
The residency program features a carefully designed curriculum that integrates both surgical theory and clinical practice. Residents rotate through various specialties within surgery, which include:
- General Surgery and Reconstructive Surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Urology
- Plastic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Bariatric Surgery
- Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
- Vascular Surgery
Each rotation provides residents a chance to engage in hands-on surgical procedures under the supervision of board-certified faculty, enhancing their learning experience and skill set.
2Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes the importance of research in advancing medical knowledge and practice. It encourages residents to engage in clinical and translational research initiatives. Residents have access to extensive data resources and support staff to aid in their research efforts, guaranteeing that residents gain valuable experience that is beneficial for their future careers.
Training Sites
Training primarily occurs at William Beaumont Army Medical Center, which boasts state-of-the-art operating rooms and surgical facilities. Additionally, residents may partake in clinical experiences at affiliated hospitals and clinics, further broadening their exposure and skills.
Unique Aspects of the Program
This program is uniquely situated within the military healthcare system, providing a diverse patient population and a wide range of medical conditions. The interdisciplinary approach to surgical care fosters a collaborative environment, allowing residents to work alongside healthcare professionals from various disciplines.
Residents participate in regular educational conferences, including Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) meetings, Grand Rounds, and specialty-based seminars, enhancing their learning and decision-making abilities.
3Visa Support and Sponsorship
The program offers sponsorship for J-1 Visa types, enabling international medical graduates (IMGs) to participate in the residency training. This facet makes the program accessible to a diverse group of applicants, fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements
The William Beaumont Army Medical Center Program is competitive, with a focus on selecting candidates who demonstrate leadership, dedication to military service, and a commitment to improving patient care. Special application requirements include a maximum number of failed STEP exams, which are generally more favorable for local graduates and military personnel. However, the program is also considered facility-friendly towards DO and IMG applicants, reflecting its commitment to diversity within its training cohort.
Resident Support and Well-Being
The program emphasizes resident wellness, providing resources and support systems to help manage the considerable demands of residency. Initiatives are in place to promote balance between personal life and the intensive training required for surgical residency.
4Conclusion
In summary, the William Beaumont Army Medical Center Program in Surgery provides a comprehensive and enriching experience for surgical residents, with access to a variety of specialties, a strong emphasis on research, and support for both personal and professional development.
Website
Director
Jonathan P Swisher, MDProgram Director / WBAMC Vascular Surgery Appointed Since June 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
28 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
13%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
196Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Location
El Paso, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in El Paso, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: El Paso is generally considered a safe city with a lower crime rate compared to other cities in Texas. It has a strong sense of community and a visible police presence.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the Franklin Mountains State Park. The city also hosts cultural events, festivals, and has a vibrant food scene.
- Climate: El Paso has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. It receives abundant sunshine throughout the year.
- Races and Population: El Paso has a diverse population with a majority of Hispanic residents. It is a border city with a strong Mexican influence.
- Education: The city is home to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and offers educational opportunities for residents of all ages.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in El Paso is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: El Paso is about a 4-hour drive from Albuquerque, NM, and a 6-hour drive from Phoenix, AZ. These cities offer additional cultural amenities and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, outdoor activities, and strong community spirit.
- Cons: Hot summers, limited public transportation options, and being located in a desert region.