Advocate Health Care Program

The Advocate General Surgery Residency Program offers a comprehensive training experience in a dynamic and diverse healthcare setting. Advocate Health is recognized as the nation’s 5th largest nonprofit integrated health system, serving the greater Chicago area through 10 hospitals and over 400 care sites. The general surgery residency is a two-site program based at Lutheran General Hospital (LGH) and Christ Medical Center (CMC), both of which have longstanding traditions in surgical education.

Program Overview
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital serves as a Level 1 trauma center, boasting over 650 beds and 20 operating rooms with more than 20,000 surgeries performed annually. The training environment at LGH supports the development of surgical skills in a robust clinical setting. Christ Medical Center, another quaternary facility, has over 800 beds, 170 ICU beds, and 44 operating rooms, handling over 26,000 surgeries each year. This environment creates significant exposure to various surgical cases, enhancing professional development through hands-on practice.

With a mission to cultivate skilled surgeons and innovative surgical leaders, the residency program emphasizes both technical proficiency and an environment of support and learning among diverse resident cohorts. The program is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that varied backgrounds enrich the educational experience and ultimately enhance patient care.

Application Process

The residency program has 7 categorical and 2 preliminary positions available for the 2025 Match. The application review process is holistic, ensuring that all aspects of the applicants’ backgrounds and experiences are considered. Visas sponsored by the program are limited to J-1 visas only. Applicants can expect virtual interviews to promote equity, cost reduction, and minimize environmental impact. Each interview process includes an introductory presentation and individual discussions with program leadership and faculty.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum includes a comprehensive education component that features weekly conferences, ABSITE review sessions, journal clubs, and simulation labs to enhance surgical skills. Residents can expect rotations through various specialties including Acute Care Surgery, General Surgery, Trauma ICU, and Vascular Surgery, among others. Specific rotations for each year are designed to provide progressive responsibility and exposure to diverse surgical techniques and patient care environments.

PGY 1 Rotations

Residents in their first year engage in critical rotations such as Acute Care Surgery, General Surgery at both LGH and CMC, and specialized fields including Vascular and Plastics Surgery.

PGY 2 Rotations

The second year focuses on more specialized fields, including Breast and Pediatric Surgery, with continued exposure to Acute Care Surgery and Trauma ICU experiences.

PGY 3-5 Rotations

In the later years of training, residents continue to build on their skills with advanced rotations in Surgical Oncology, Transplant Surgery, and thoracic surgery, facilitating a well-rounded surgical education.

Research and Mentorship

Research is an integral part of the residency experience with numerous opportunities available to residents at both training sites. Faculty provide mentorship and guidance throughout the research process, supporting residents in their academic and professional growth.

Benefits and Support

Residents are provided with a competitive salary structure, educational stipends, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Additionally, the program allocates 28 days of paid time off (PTO) and offers support through fitness and wellness programs to ensure residents maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Long-term Vision

The Advocate General Surgery Residency Program aims to develop future leaders in surgery, equipping residents with the skills required for independent practice upon graduation. The program supports aspirations for fellowship training in specialized surgical fields, underscoring a commitment to excellence in surgical education.

In summary, the Advocate Surgery Residency offers a challenging yet supportive environment, equipping residents with the skills, experience, and knowledge needed to excel in their surgical careers.