Resident research training conducted in a community hospital general surgery residency program.

Abstract Purpose Research is educationally important for surgical residents. However, little information exists regarding effective methods for teaching residents scientific methodology in a community hospital. This effort describes an effective program conducted in a community hospital for enhancing scientific opportunities of surgical residents. Methods A strong infrastructure that supports research is necessary. Dedicated nonsalaried teaching faculty serve as mentors and co-investigators. Opportunities to engage in basic research are made available in off-campus basic science laboratories. Results Research productivity has been prolific, as demonstrated by numerous publications. Residents interested in subspeciality training have been able to conduct research that has made them competitive for fellowships and a wider range of practice choices. Conclusion Rigorous research can be effectively taught in a community hospital, provided adequate educational and funding support is provided and faculty actively mentor residents. Having research capabilities provides added incentive for better-qualified medical students to apply to a surgical residency position in a community hospital. Research productivity also enhances the ability to better recruit new faculty.