US Clinical Rotation in General Surgery

Guided by a distinguished General and Gastroenterology Surgeon, this course provides a practical rotation that deeply involves students in the complex world of surgical patient care within a clinical setting. During this unique rotation, participants have the exceptional chance to observe a diverse array of surgical procedures firsthand. At the heart of the program lies the development of key skills, including proficient history taking, mastering physical examination techniques, and formulating detailed diagnostic and treatment plans. Under the tutelage of skilled professionals, students will sharpen their skills in compiling comprehensive surgical histories and physical examinations, along with progress notes and order sets. This process significantly boosts their competence in handling surgical patients, equipping them with the practical challenges they will encounter in the realm of surgery.

The virtual aspect of the rotation is directed by highly regarded general and gastroenterology surgeons from Mount Sinai Brooklyn, offering a unique perspective on treating an elderly patient demographic with complex chronic conditions. Despite the virtual format, the program ensures a comprehensive learning experience across various clinical settings, including clinics, emergency rooms, wards, and ICUs. Students gain access to a vast collection of surgical case videos, spanning general, vascular, thoracic, and gynecological surgery, enriching their learning journey. The program includes virtual demonstrations of bedside procedures and daily case presentations, enhancing students' skills in history taking, physical examination, diagnosis, and treatment planning. This meticulous virtual training empowers students to effectively compose surgical H&Ps, progress notes, and order sets, vital for efficient surgical patient management.

Located in Greenbelt, Maryland, and affiliated with Providence Hospital, this 4-week outpatient rotation is an integral part of the program. Under the leadership of Dr Hill, the medical director and a renowned physician, students will engage in an intensive General Surgery curriculum. Observing 3-5 patients daily, participants will not only conduct patient interviews but also delve into in-depth case analyses and discussions revolving around doctor-patient relationship dynamics. The rotation also provides the possibility for students to observe surgical procedure setups and, if approved by the supervisor, the surgeries themselves. With a commitment of 36-40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, this rotation is designed to offer an extensive and enriching learning experience in a real-world outpatient setting.

This program is uniquely structured to offer a holistic view of surgical patient care, combining hands-on, virtual, and outpatient experiences. Students emerge from the course not only with a deep understanding of surgical procedures and patient management but also with enhanced skills in communication, diagnosis, and treatment planning. This comprehensive approach ensures that participants are well-equipped for future endeavors in the surgical field.

• Obtain direct exposure and participate actively in a variety of surgical procedures, guided by experienced surgeons
• Immerse yourself in detailed virtual training that includes case studies and live demonstrations spanning numerous surgical disciplines
• Sharpen essential surgical skills, emphasizing efficient patient communication, accurate diagnosis, and the development of effective treatment strategies
• Undertake a 4-week intensive rotation at Providence Hospital, gaining valuable experience in patient interaction and practical insights into surgical procedures