With the resources available in this training program, our goal is to develop competent and responsible plastic surgeons with a high moral and ethical character capable of functioning independently. The training program will prepare the residents to function at the level expected of a specialist. As such, the residents will be expected to achieve competence in the areas of medical knowledge, patient care, practice-based learning and improvement, interpersonal and communication skills, systems-based practice, and professionalism.
Medical knowledge
It is anticipated that over time, the residents will develop a comprehensive fund of knowledge germane to plastic surgery and will refine their presentation skills through delivery of resident lectures. The residents will also learn how to design and conduct scientific studies. These goals will be accomplished through a program of self-study and personal growth, together with organized didactic education activities.
Patient care
Residents must be able to provide patient care that is compassionate, appropriate, and effective for the treatment of health problems and the promotion of health. The residents are expected to demonstrate steady development of their clinical skills including medical interviewing, physical examination, operative technique, and clinical photography.
Practice-Based learning and improvement
It is anticipated that residents will demonstrate progressive refinement in their patient care through integration of scientific knowledge, critical review of outcomes and scientific data, and technical instruction provided by the faculty. At completion of training, the residents are expected to possess adequate skills to develop a knowledge-based, successful, and well-managed practice.
Interpersonal and communication skills
It is expected that the residents will develop effective communication skills and assume a leadership role within the health care team with the guidance of the attending faculty. The residents will be led to understand that successful patient care requires them to be attentive and sensitive to the needs of patients and their families and to exchange information with other providers in an effective and collegial manner.
Systems-Based practice
It is expected that the residents will demonstrate an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger context and system of health care. They are expected to develop practice habits that are conducive to complete and optimal patient care and serve as a resource for coordination of care within a variety of practice settings.
Professionalism
During the course of patient care and interaction with other health care professionals, the residents will learn to exhibit qualities expected of a physician. These include adherence to high moral and ethical principles, being respectful to patients and their families and other members of the healthcare team. They will learn that as a respected physician, they will have to provide prompt service, demonstrate cultural sensitivity, be reliable, punctual, and accountable for their actions, and be committed to excellence.