ACADEMICS
Madigan residents have protected time every week for academic development.
A proven history of success
In a 2019 study of surgical residencies published in the American Journal of Surgery, Madigan had the #1 first-time board pass rate of the 231 programs in the country! We pride ourselves on excellence in the annual ABSITE examination.
Home of behind the knife: the surgery podcast
The nation’s #1 surgical podcast was started by Madigan General Surgery graduates. BTK regularly hosts leading world experts across the breadth of surgery, and is an integrated component of Madigan’s academic curriculum.
MORE features of our academic program
Modular Curriculum
We adhere to the unique two-year curriculum based on learning objectives from the Surgical Council on Resident Education (SCORE) and the American Board of Surgery (ABS). This is supplemented with weekly readings from Scientific American Surgery, provided for free by the program.
Expert Lectures
Madigan has access to leading thinkers in all facets of surgical care. We host regular lectures by subject matter experts that span the gamut of potential issues that a deployed military surgeon may face downrange. Our experts come from MAMC itself as well as Tacoma General, OHSU, and Harborview Medical Center.
State-of-the Art Simulation
We organize regular live-tissue training labs to practice advanced surgical procedures in a controlled environment for younger residents. The Anderson simulation center is an award-winning, state-of-the-art facility with extensive simulator equipment that can replicate field, ER, and OR environments faithfully. Madigan also hosts the local area's only center for FLS and FES testing, giving us access to the exact equipment that is used for the actual test.
Oral Boards Drills
We focus heavily on developing the confidence of residents to present patients and management plans. Endearingly referred to as "the podium," each morning residents have opportunities to present patients, management plans, and their academic knowledge in a supportive but challenging environment. When it comes time for the real oral board examination, our residents universally find themselves ready.
Quality Improvement
We recognize fast-paced changes in the medical field and strive to stay on the edge of innovation and patient care. The General Surgery Quality Improvement Committee is led by residents and meets biweekly to foster change and implement evidence-based best-practices.
Morbidity and Mortality
In the long tradition of surgeons nationwide, we create a constructive environment where residents are in charge of discussing patients, operations, and outcomes. Lessons learned and alternate methodologies are shared with the entire department.