Pediatric Urology Congrats
Congratulations are in order to Drs. Hittelman and Arlen and the rest of the pediatric urology team. Yale Pediatric Urology has moved up six more spots from last year in the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking. It now places at #18 in the country. With the arrival of Dr. Bortnick and additional planned recruitments, I have no doubt the pediatric team will continue to grow its reputation on the national stage.
Slight Access 365 Delay
Access 365 is in full swing. Nevertheless, the timeline laid down initially has proven to be ambitious and the full implementation has been delayed to December. Please remain engaged in this critical initiative as satisfactorily resolving the access issue will be critical for our collective goal of becoming a destination program.
Identified Metrics Will Soon Be Shared
To measure the progress we are making in becoming a destination department, our leaders have collectively developed a consensus around a series of specific outcomes. These metrics, which focus on the three academic missions – clinical, education, and research - will soon be shared monthly with the division and regional leaders.
In-Person Residency Interviews
On the education front, residency recruitment is upon us. After screening more than 200 applicants, 50 interviews have been offered. I am delighted to report that no one has declined the interview offer. Yale Urology is fast becoming a destination center for trainees. This year, we have decided to conduct the interviews in person. This decision was made deliberately because one of the major challenges in recruitment to Yale is our geographic location. New Haven and Connecticut has much charm, and this can be better shown with an in-person visit.
Urology Now Mandatory for YSM Students
Earlier this month we hosted our annual surgical skills fair, geared toward first- and second-year medical students. Once again, it proved to be a popular and interactive event with 64 students rotating through 11 hands-on practice stations. In addition, for the first time, urology will now be a mandatory rotation for all Yale School of Medicine students beginning in January.
Task Force Reports by End of Year
I am delighted to report that our financial outlook has improved dramatically due to modification of the wRVU payment formula. Nevertheless, budgetary challenges remain. It is anticipated that many of these challenges will be addressed by the two task forces who are expected to provide recommendations by the end of this calendar year.
Bulldog Debates
Finally, this weekend we are hosting the 2nd Annual Yale Urology Bulldog Debates – our destination CME symposium at the Yale Club in New York City. This event is one of the centerpieces of Yale Urology developing a team culture while expanding alumni engagement. We are excited to reveal our inaugural recipient of the Robert M. Weiss Distinguished Alumni Award! Also, at the debates this year, we will be handing out department bow ties and twillies for faculty members and resident alumni. I look forward to seeing you there.