PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Sponsoring Institution: Ponce Health Sciences University, Centro Médico Episcopal San Lucas (CMESL). The Urology Residency offers robotic, laparoscopic, and open surgical training with progressive autonomy. Residents benefit from strong oncologic exposure through multidisciplinary tumor boards. The program features a research curriculum with mentorship, IRB support, and opportunities for conference travel. Additionally, there is community engagement through DoD-funded screening initiatives in underserved regions. To promote resident wellness, the program includes protected didactics, simulation, and flexible electives.

Centro Médico Episcopal San Lucas serves as a tertiary referral center and primary clinical site, while Ponce Health Sciences University acts as the academic home and simulation center for Urology Residency training. Urocentro del Sur is known for its high-volume outpatient surgical practice, and CACE – Centro Ambulatorio de Cirugía Especializada is recognized as an advanced outpatient surgical center. Hospital Damas is located in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and Hospital Bella Vista is situated in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. The Pediatrics Rotation at HIMA Hospital in Caguas, Puerto Rico, along with other affiliated community hospitals across southern Puerto Rico, provides diverse clinical exposure and community-based care, enriching the surgical training experience.

The Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU)–CMESL Urology Residency Program offers a comprehensive, competency-based curriculum designed to prepare residents for independent practice and leadership in urology. This Urology Residency integrates weekly didactic sessions, hands-on simulation, high-volume surgical training, and progressive clinical responsibilities. Residents gain expertise in open, endoscopic, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery, while developing skills in patient care, research, and systems-based practice. The curriculum is fully aligned with AUA milestones and ensures a balance of academic rigor, surgical training, and professional development.

At Ponce Health Sciences University, our surgical training includes weekly core curriculum sessions, a Journal Club, Morbidity & Mortality (M&M) conferences, and board review preparation. We also emphasize case-based learning that aligns with AUA milestones, all of which are integral to our Urology Residency program.

At Ponce Health Sciences University, our Urology Residency program offers comprehensive training in advanced procedures. Ureteroscopy involves simulation in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures, while laparoscopy provides hands-on practice in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Additionally, our robotics training focuses on robotic-assisted surgery using current platforms. Skills development in cystoscopy is also emphasized, enhancing both diagnostic and operative capabilities. Furthermore, trainees engage in ultrasound-guided procedures, practicing imaging of the prostate, kidney, and bladder with guided interventions.

At Ponce Health Sciences University, residents in the Urology Residency program experience graduated responsibility, advancing through increasing levels of autonomy as their surgical training progresses. Junior residents always benefit from senior back-up, with support provided by senior residents and attending supervision. Duty hours compliance is a priority, as schedules are structured to meet ACGME requirements, ensuring that hours are tracked and monitored for the wellness and safety of all residents.