Morehouse School of Medicine Program

Atlanta, GA
Specialty: Surgery
ACGME Code: 4401221397

The Surgery Residency Program at Morehouse School of Medicine aims to cultivate surgeons who deliver compassionate and technically proficient surgical care. The program is characterized by its commitment to diversity, focusing on both clinical excellence and the integration of innovative surgical practices. Faculty members are dedicated to blending basic science education with practical, hands-on surgical training that emphasizes patient-centered care and community health promotion 1.

Program Goals

The primary goal of the MSM Surgery Residency Program is to equip residents with the necessary skills to address diverse health conditions effectively. Alongside practical surgical training, residents are expected to understand the nuances of providing care in medically underserved communities. Key objectives include:

  • Developing knowledgeable and competent general surgeons capable of managing a wide array of surgical issues.
  • Providing exposure to various subspecialty fields to foster collaboration and comprehensive patient care.
  • Training residents to function effectively with broader healthcare teams in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Curriculum and Training

The residency curriculum offers a rich blend of didactic and clinical training, encompassing various educational conferences, including:

  • Patient Safety and Quality Improvement sessions
  • Grand Rounds
  • Journal Clubs
  • Simulation and Robotics Training
  • Resident Research Presentations
  • Basic Science Instruction

These components are aimed at enhancing technical skills and integrating advanced surgical technologies. Residents are also exposed to innovations in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, reflecting the program’s focus on modern surgical advancements 1.

Training Sites

Morehouse School of Medicine collaborates with several prestigious healthcare facilities in Atlanta to provide diverse clinical experiences for its residents. Key training sites include:

  • Grady Memorial Hospital
  • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite
  • Emory Healthcare/Dekalb Medical Center
  • Piedmont Hospital
  • Atlanta VA Medical Center

This affiliation enhances the residency experience by allowing residents to encounter a wide range of surgical cases and learn from esteemed clinicians in different healthcare environments 1.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages residents to engage in clinical and scientific research, facilitating collaboration between faculty and residents. Such opportunities bolster the residents’ academic profiles and enhance their learning experiences through scholarly activities. Research is a critical element, allowing the surgical community to contribute to advancements in the field 1.

Resident Life

Maintaining resident well-being is pivotal to the program’s philosophy. The residency emphasizes work-life balance and offers a supportive environment conducive to personal and professional growth. Residents can expect a rigorous schedule averaging around 80 hours per week, balanced by the program’s commitment to maintaining a healthy resident community 1.

Application Process and Requirements

Prospective applicants must fulfill certain criteria, including recent graduation from medical school and passing scores on USMLE or COMLEX exams. The program is acknowledged as being competitive but welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates and osteopathic physicians. Understanding the application expectations can significantly shape a candidate’s journey into the program.

Visa Support

The Surgery Residency Program at Morehouse School of Medicine is capable of sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas for eligible international medical graduates. This aspect underscores the program’s inclusivity and commitment to attracting talented candidates regardless of their nationality 1.

Salary and Benefits

Residents in the program receive a competitive salary starting at $63,971 for PGY-1, with incremental increases for subsequent years. Benefits include comprehensive insurance options (medical, dental, vision, life, and malpractice), along with additional perks like lab coats and parking 1.

Conclusion

The Surgery Residency Program at Morehouse School of Medicine is committed to developing skilled and compassionate surgeons, addressing the complex needs of diverse communities in Atlanta and beyond. With robust educational training, prestigious partnerships, and a focus on research and patient care, it prepares its residents for a successful future in surgery, whether in academic medicine, private practice, or global health initiatives.

Director

Kimberly Miller-Hammond, MD
Program Director

Coordinators

Montreka Dansby, PhD
Director for Surgical Education
(404) 616-7847
Mrs. Dollmesha Greene, MBA
Program Manager for Surgical Education
(404) 616-1426
Roberto Cortez, MD
Associate Program Director
(210) 286-7986

Program

Program size
9, 3, 3, 3, 3 (5 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2026

Training

Fellowship Rate: 59%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio: 0.7X

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours: 60 hours
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 24 hours
First Year Salary: $66 530
First Year Paid Vacation: 15 days
First Year Paid Sick Leave: 20 days

Admission

USMLE Step 2 Score: 245
Visa Sponsorship: J1
YOG Cutoff: 3

Match History

Track: 2099440C0
2025
3 of 3
2024
3 of 3
2023
3 of 3
2022
3 of 3
2021
3 of 3
2020
3 of 3
Track: 2099440P0
2025
6 of 6
2024
1 of 6
2023
0 of 6
2022
3 of 6
2021
3 of 6
2020
3 of 6

Location

Atlanta, GA
Population
498 715
Income
$85 880
Education
59.6%
Employment
65.6%
Health
8.8%
Age
34
Housing - Rental Prices
Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Rate per 100,000 Residents

Living in Atlanta, GA

  • Crime Rate and Safety: Atlanta has some high-crime areas, but overall safety is similar to other major U.S. cities. It's recommended to be cautious and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Fun Activities: Atlanta offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, parks, restaurants, and outdoor activities. You can enjoy the Georgia Aquarium, Piedmont Park, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
  • Climate: Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and high humidity in the summer.
  • Races and Population: Atlanta is a diverse city with a blend of different races and cultures. It has a significant African American population and a growing Hispanic community.
  • Education: Atlanta is home to prestigious universities like Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, providing opportunities for continued education and research.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Atlanta is moderate compared to other major U.S. cities. Housing costs can vary based on the neighborhood.
  • Proximity to Bigger Cities: Atlanta is within driving distance to cities like Nashville, TN (about 3.5 hours), and Charlotte, NC (about 4 hours), offering weekend getaway options.
  • Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, moderate cost of living.
  • Cons: Some high-crime areas, hot and humid summers.
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