RWMC: Dermatology Residency: Overview

Roger Williams Medical Center training in dermatology and skin surgery is a three-year program following at least one preliminary year. Each year we choose 2-3 residents through the residency matching program.

Our program incorporates training and experience in the inpatient and ambulatory setting, and educates residents in direct inpatient care and consultation, cutaneous surgery, in becoming proficient in the use of lasers and cosmetic procedures, dermatopathology, and clinical and basic science research as it relates to dermatology. Clinical exposures in both inpatient and outpatient settings is accompanied by and integrated with lectures and educational events. Each year of training in dermatology provides residents with increasing and well-supervised levels of responsibilities according to the resident's abilities and skills, allowing the resident to acquire experience and knowledge in the treatment of common and uncommon conditions.

Educational Goals

To provide dermatology residents with an educational program, which will prepare them for a life-long practice of compassionate, ethical, and quality dermatology and cutaneous surgery, deeply rooted in the science of the specialty.
To provide a framework of training which will guide them in the acquisition of skills needed for the critical evaluation of new knowledge and for an evidence-based approach to dermatology.
To ensure that the dermatology residents receive the proper education and acquire the study habits and skills to successfully obtain and maintain certification in the specialty of dermatology.

Each year, trainees in the Program will have graded and systematic acquisition of knowledge and responsibilities:

First year residents (PGY2) will be assigned initially to general dermatology clinics, followed by a more intensive exposure to in-hospital consultations and care of dermatology in-patients. Click here for First Year Objectives.
Second year residents (PGY3) will have more extensive assignments in general dermatology, dermatologic surgery and dermatopathology, as well as teaching assignments. Click here for Second Year Objectives.
Third year residents (PGY4) will be expected to manage (with appropriate supervision) difficult dermatological conditions, have added responsibilities in their clinical rotations (including dermatopathology, surgery, cosmetic and laser clinic), and regularly teach other trainees. Click here for Third Year Objectives.

High Success Rate
The ultimate measurement of our approach is the first time pass rate of our graduates when they take the American Board of Dermatology Exam. All of our graduates taking the exam for the first time achieved passing scores. Board certification is an essential credential for membership in most group practices and is increasingly required for staff privileges at most hospitals. Also, our residents have sought and completed prestigious fellowships after residency training.