Comparison of urology residency training between the United States and China.

OBJECTIVE

This study compares the present status and traits of urology residency programs in the United States and China.

METHODS

The flow path, structure, curriculum, operative experience, scholarly activities, evaluation systems and other aspects of training were comparatively evaluated between China and the United States.

RESULTS

Urology residency training programs are different between China and the United States in many aspects. Admission requirements for the United States urology residency program are more rigorous, and the specialty training program in the United States is more concentrated. Furthermore, residency programs in USA have much more practical clinical and research training, and their evaluation process is more diverse, and it has been designed to assess competencies. Moreover, job opportunities after residency substantially differ between these two countries. Becoming an independent urologic surgeon is not the specific goal of the Urology residency training program in China, and it would require more training time than in the United States.

CONCLUSION

Urology residency training programs in the United States and China have a unique format and characteristics. The training programs in China are focused on general techniques and procedures, while training programs in USA follow a more standardized curriculum. Both USA and China may complement each other to create training programs that would ultimately provide high-quality patient care.