Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell at Staten Island University Hospital Program

The program in Vascular Surgery - Independent at Staten Island University Hospital, associated with the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, is designed to provide advanced training in vascular surgery, going beyond the fundamentals to offer comprehensive exposure and experience in the field. This independent residency program typically spans two years, focusing on skills essential for surgical practice and patient management in vascular surgery.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is rigorously designed, emphasizing both clinical and operative skills necessary in the realm of vascular surgery. Residents engage in a range of educational and practical experiences, including:

• Core Rotations: Residents rotate through various surgical specialties to gain a well-rounded knowledge critical for vascular surgery practice, including trauma, general surgery, and surgical oncology.
• Vascular Surgery-Specific Training: This includes extensive training in endovascular techniques, open surgical procedures, and postoperative care. Residents are involved in managing patients with diverse vascular conditions.
• Research Opportunities: Residents participate in research projects relevant to vascular surgery, fostering a deeper understanding of current practices and innovations.

Clinical Exposure

The program boasts a robust clinical environment with access to a diverse patient population. Residents benefit from exposure to a wide array of vascular conditions, including complex aortic diseases and peripheral vascular disorders. The independent residency enables residents to take an active role in surgical cases, under the supervision of experienced faculty, enhancing their hands-on skills.

Training Sites

Training primarily occurs at Staten Island University Hospital, equipped with state-of-the-art surgical facilities and advanced technology. The hospital is committed to high-quality surgical care and is a vital resource for healthcare on Staten Island, allowing residents to engage with a rich variety of surgical cases.

Research Focus

A significant aspect of the program is the emphasis on scholarly activity and research. Residents are expected to engage in research projects which culminate in presentations at national conferences and submissions for publication. The program aims to instill a spirit of inquiry and clinical investigation, aligning with the academic missions of both the hospital and Hofstra/Northwell.

Competitive Environment

The program is recognized for its competitive nature. It attracts a diverse array of applicants, and candidates are evaluated on a range of criteria including academic performance, clinical experience, and recommendation letters. While the residency is highly competitive, the program is generally considered friendly to various applicant backgrounds including DOs and IMGs, fostering an inclusive training environment.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers sponsorship for J1 visas, enabling international medical graduates to participate in its training offerings. The program evaluates the granting of H1B visas on a yearly assessment basis, providing flexibility to candidates securing a position in the residency.

Application Requirements

Applying to this residency program necessitates a completed application through ERAS, inclusive of the following requirements:

• Three letters of recommendation
• A dean's letter
• Transcript copies
• A personal statement elaborating on the candidate's background and interest in vascular surgery
• EFCMG certification (if available)
• USMLE or COMLEX score reports

Applicants with only a limited number of failed exams are encouraged to apply, reflecting the program's focus on holistic assessment of each candidate.

Resident Life

The program promotes an environment dedicated to the well-being and professional development of its residents. There are organized wellness activities and events that allow residents to foster camaraderie and develop interpersonal skills critical for surgical practice. The program's supportive culture helps mitigate the stresses commonly associated with residency training.

Additional Opportunities

Beyond clinical training, residents are encouraged to take part in community outreach and service initiatives, bridging connections between the hospital and the diverse Staten Island community. This engagement not only enriches residents' training but also helps foster a sense of service and dedication to the practice of medicine.