Department of Surgery

Application

Paper applications will not be accepted. Personal interviews are by invitation only and are required for acceptance to our program.

The UPMC General Surgery GME Program does sponsor J1 visas. All ECFMG requirements must be fulfilled prior to the first official clinical day (July 1st) of intern year. We employ a holistic application review process, paying special attention to academic rigor and success. We strongly prefer applicants to be fourth-year allopathic medical students.

A completed application includes:
•  Curriculum Vitae
•  USMLE - Passed first attempts, Steps 1 and 2, with a preferred combined score of 440 or higher
•  COMLEX - Parts 1 and 2, with a preferred score of 500 or higher
•  U.S. clinical experience
•  Personal statement
•  Official transcript from your medical school
•  Three letters of recommendation
•  Dean’s letter (MPSE)
•  Graduated from medical school within the past five years

CME Allowance

Upon completion of PYG-1 categorical year, residents with up to date case logs (as defined by ACGME and general surgery policy) are awarded $1,000 annually to use toward books, conferences, surgical loupes, and advanced educational instruction. This money is rolled over in subsequent years and can ultimately be used to cover the cost of sitting for boards.

Meals

Residents receive a preloaded meal-card to utilize in the UPMC Mercy cafeteria and the 1847 Cafe. Additional meal funds are provided for off-service rotations. There is also an elective gift shop allotment to cover the cost of incidentals (greeting cards, gifts, etc.).

Lab Coats

Residents receive two lab coats at the start of their PGY-1 year. One additional coat is provided upon resident request in the first 3 months of each additional year of training.

Fitness Facility

Residents may utilize the fitness area on the 5th floor of the Mercy Professional Office Building at no cost.

Parking

Residents receive parking in the New Mercy Pavilion Garage at no cost to them.

Additional Benefits

Pitt Gold Card: Takes 30 days from the date of hire for a new trainee to appear in the PITT database. Trainee should go to Pitt Panther Central (Towers Lobby). Gold card provides access to Trees Hall (gym), Pitt Shuttles and Pitt Library.