University of Michigan Program - Khaled S. Hafez, MD, Program Director

Our program is unique in the following: 1) World class institution, department, and faculty. Resident teaching is an utmost priority to all faculty, and all aspects of urologic sub-specialties are provided by multiple faculty that have national and international recognition in their areas of expertise. 2) As program director, I am fully committed to provide the best possible training, education and career opportunities. It is my personal mission to assure that our program is one of the best, if not the best in the country. 3) The educational structure of the program itself is a key distinguishing feature. Our residents are expected to provide input and voice their opinion in their training. We have exceptional residents and ensure that we provide our residents with the necessary tools to excel.

Program highlights provided by PD:

1. Curriculum and Lectures: The basic urology curriculum will span over two years with core topics reviewed yearly in the beginning of the academic year. Four focused review sessions will be provided by the chief residents (PD supervised) prior to the In-Service Exam (ISE).

2. Rotations: In response to faculty and resident feedback, we are piloting this year, three month block chief rotations on the Oncology/VA services. We hope this will positively impact the resident/faculty experience and patient care. Depending on feedback/outcome we may expand other services/rotations to three month intervals.

3. Basic Surgical Training:

A.) Open techniques. Practice sessions started June 2013 for PGY1s. This was very well received by the residents and they requested twice yearly sessions for the first two years if possible.

B.) Robotic techniques 1.) Faculty will be hosting an introductory practice session at the Simulation Center every July. 2.) To further improve training we are in the process of breaking down commonly performed robotic cases into detailed systematic steps. Faculty/residents can track progress on the specified forms. These forms will be available and I encourage their use to track progress.

4. Laparoscopic and Endoscopic techniques: Feedback from faculty and residents strongly reflects strength in these areas.

5. Learning Evaluations:

A.) Oral Boards: Yearly formal mock oral boards will start Spring/Summer 2014. We are in the process of finalizing the details. We will standardize the exam according to the HO level.

B.) Written In-Service: Well defined standards have been communicated with all faculty/residents.

Our program is a high caliber program and we have high expectations from our residents. There is no question that residency is tough. Our residents work hard, and we continue to inspire them to do better and never settle for mediocrity. We encourage students that are motivated, hardworking, ambitious, ethical and, most importantly, trust-worthy. Scholarly activity and outstanding academic record are desired.

Academic performance, scholarly activity and letters of recommendation are critically analyzed. Performance during M4 rotations are taken into consideration. We solicit feedback from our residents and program coordinator.

Be realistic but always challenge yourself to achieve your dreams. Be organized, enthusiastic, and be yourself. Good performance and possible clinical research at your institution is helpful.