SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Program

The General Surgery residency program at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is designed to provide outstanding training to future surgeons while serving Brooklyn’s diverse patient population. This highly respected program is approved to graduate eight residents each year and emphasizes the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care, alongside significant engagement in clinical research and exceptional education.1

Residents in the Program gain comprehensive exposure across the major subspecialties of general surgery, including but not limited to bariatrics, minimally invasive surgery, hepatobiliary surgery, colorectal surgery, transplant surgery, plastic surgery, thoracic surgery, and vascular surgery. The Program also benefits from its affiliation with a high-volume, Level I trauma center, presenting unparalleled opportunities for training in trauma and critical care environments.1

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency structure spans five years, known as the categorical residency in general surgery. During the first year, residents engage in intensive training with five months dedicated to general surgery, alongside rotations in vascular surgery, trauma, transplant, pediatric surgery, and elective areas such as ENT or urology.2

The second year continues to build upon the foundations laid in the first, with continued focus on general surgery and additional rotations in critical surgical units, including trauma and cardiothoracic intensive care.2

In the third year, residents advance into senior assistant resident roles, which prepares them for the challenges of supervisory positions in their final two years. The emphasis during the fourth and fifth years is on refining surgical decision-making skills and enhancing technical expertise, alongside considerable teaching responsibilities to more junior residents.2

Training Sites

The Program offers diverse rotational experiences at six primary locations. These include the University Hospital of Downstate, South Brooklyn Health (previously Coney Island Hospital), Kings County Hospital, the New York-Harbor VA Medical Center-Brooklyn Campus, Richmond University Medical Center, and Memorial Sloan Kettering.1

Research Opportunities

Residents are actively encouraged to participate in the iNSPIRe research initiative which provides early exposure to high-quality clinical research, fostering mentorship relationships with expert faculty members. This initiative is designed to enhance the training experience through meaningful engagement in research activities throughout residency.1

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Program places a strong emphasis on the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It works to ensure a supportive and respectful environment, acknowledging the breadth of differences among its trainees. This commitment is evident in its holistic approach to reviewing resident applications, aiming to reduce implicit biases and enhance representation from underrepresented communities.4

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Benched as a competitive residency, the program welcomes graduates from all accredited medical institutions, including those international medical graduates holding ECFMG certification. Potential applicants must complete the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) application process, submit a personal statement, CV, medical school transcripts, three letters of recommendation, USMLE scores, a dean’s letter, and secure a personal interview.2

The program supports valid visa applications, including F1 and H1 visa types, facilitating appropriate visa status for international applicants.6

Wellness and Support Initiatives

Recognizing the rigors of surgical training, SUNY Downstate has implemented numerous initiatives focused on resident wellness. These programs are designed to promote positive mental and physical health, with various activities including the creation of wellness lounges, hosting of appreciation events, and organizing mental health resources.5

Resident-led Committees

Residents have the opportunity to engage in several committees, allowing them to advocate for their peers, manage wellness events, and influence departmental initiatives. This involvement fosters a collaborative atmosphere and encourages professional growth through leadership opportunities.7

Conclusion

The SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University General Surgery residency program is committed to excellence in surgical education, focusing on individual growth within a collaborative team environment. The combination of comprehensive surgical training, diverse patient population exposure, and strong emphasis on wellness and inclusivity makes this program a compelling option for aspiring surgeons.