MedStar Health Georgetown University Program

The MedStar Health Georgetown University Program in Dermatology is dedicated to training skilled physicians capable of meeting the complex demands of dermatology practice. The residency program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that combines clinical and didactic education, fostering a deep understanding of dermatological conditions.

Application Process

Applicants must utilize the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) exclusively, with a submission deadline set for September 27, 2024, for the upcoming academic year. The program will participate in The MATCH, and candidates are advised to register accordingly. For the year 2025-2026, the program will have a total of four positions available: two PGY-2 Categorical Dermatology positions and two internal medicine-dermatology positions.1

Applicants must complete a preliminary year in an ACGME-accredited training program by June 30, 2026, to qualify for the Categorical Dermatology residency. A minimum of three letters of recommendation, preferably from individuals who know the applicant’s qualifications closely, are required. The program accepts International Medical Graduates (IMG) but includes specific considerations for their application process, with the ECFMG certificate mandatory at the time of application.1

Visa Support

The program accepts J-1 visas for international applicants, who must be ECFMG-certified to apply for the visa necessary to begin the residency. J-1 holders are obligated to return to their home country for two years following the completion of their training before they can re-enter the U.S. The program does not sponsor H-1B visas.1

Competitiveness

The MedStar Health Georgetown University Program in Dermatology is recognized for its competitive nature. It seeks well-rounded applicants with strong academic records and clinical experience. The program highly encourages participation from both U.S. and international medical graduates, thus promoting diversity within its ranks.1

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is designed to prepare residents for clinical and academic careers in dermatology. Educational activities occur weekly and include several focused initiatives such as:

• Consult Rewind: Case reviews to enhance learning from inpatient and pediatric services.
• Multidisciplinary Melanoma and Skin Cancer Tumor Board: A collaborative effort with the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.
• Textbook Reviews: Weekly sessions aimed at deepening medical knowledge of dermatological conditions.
• Kodachrome Conference: A session that sharpens residents’ skills in recognizing skin diseases.
• Journal Club: This bi-monthly meeting teaches clinical investigation methodologies and keeps residents informed about current technologies and practices.2

Residents also attend weekly grand rounds hosted among several academic institutions in Washington, D.C., including Georgetown University, George Washington University, and the National Institutes of Health, where they can discuss common and rare conditions, treatment alternatives, and emerging research.2

Training Sites

Residency training takes place across various esteemed facilities, including:

• MedStar Washington Hospital Center: As the largest hospital in the region, this center serves as a critical referral hub for advanced medical care.
• MedStar Georgetown University Hospital: A leading not-for-profit hospital providing exceptional healthcare services.
• Children’s National Hospital: Offers valuable exposure to pediatric dermatological conditions, enhancing residents’ versatility in managing diverse patient populations.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Provides access to groundbreaking dermatology research and clinical trials.
• Dermatology at MedStar Health, Chevy Chase: This outpatient setting focuses on Mohs Micrographic Surgery and other essential procedures.2

Rotations

Residents experience a diverse range of clinical rotations, including:

• General Dermatology: Includes exposure to various dermatological fields such as medical dermatology, immunodermatology, and more.
• Dermatopathology: Residents examine cases with staff dermatopathologists, enhancing diagnostic skills.
• Pediatric Dermatology: Offers insights into the full spectrum of pediatric skin conditions.
• Inpatient Services: Engages residents in managing inpatient dermatology consults and developing practical treatment skills.2

Overall, the program endeavors to equip its residents with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their future dermatology careers.