Message from the Program Director
Vijay Patel, M.D.
Thank you for your interest in the UAMS Pathology Residency Program. My job as the program director is to provide an environment in which each resident can succeed regardless of chosen career path. I am a strong advocate for our residents and welcome their ideas. I want them to be actively engaged in the program. They not only work hard and learn a lot, but they enjoy their time at UAMS. The collegial working environment is consistently mentioned as a program strength by residents and faculty alike. The success of our graduates is also noteworthy.
They are competitive for the best fellowship and job opportunities across the country. The curriculum and mentorship ensure they are equally well-prepared for an academic or private practice career.
As the only academic medical center in the state of Arkansas, our residents are guaranteed to see a great variety of material and the best cases. Education is further enhanced by rotations at the Central Arkansas VA System, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and the Arkansas State Crime Lab. Our faculty includes internationally recognized speakers, textbook authors, and leaders in national pathology organizations. Residents benefit from the UAMS surgical pathology subspecialty sign-out system during which they learn from experts. The surgical pathology suite and core laboratory are spacious, modern, and bright. Our gorgeous molecular diagnostics laboratory on the twelfth floor of the Cancer Institute offers an amazing view of downtown and a photo-op on the balcony for interviewees.
In July, our new residents receive introductory lectures reviewing basic concepts ranging from normal histology to laboratory safety. In June, the rising PGY-2s receive a special orientation as they prepare to take call. AP and CP rotations are integrated throughout the four year curriculum and the schedules are flexible so that residents may complete electives or subspecialty rotations during the second year. AP and CP topics are covered during our daily 8:00 a.m. didactics, many of which incorporate active learning. Weekly morning report also provides a formal learning opportunity for residents on CP rotations.
Research is encouraged and residents are supported if their work is accepted for presentation at a national meeting. Each spring brings our annual resident research symposium. A visiting faculty member participates, residents present their work, awards are given, and the day is capped off with our graduation banquet. We have other social events throughout the year and a bowling party in July has become a tradition. Residents receive a microscope, laptop, generous book and travel fund, free parking, and complimentary access to ExpertPath. Our residents also benefit from the low cost of living and high quality of life Little Rock provides. Little Rock has an amazing food scene, minor league baseball, a symphony and repertory theater, and several microbreweries are popping up. Biking, hiking, fishing, and camping are all outdoor activities enjoyed by our residents and faculty. Finally, our state parks can’t be missed!
Sincerely,
Vijay Patel, M.D.