WashU International Physician Observer — Head & Neck Surgery
St. Louis, Missouri · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
The Washington University School of Medicine Department of Otolaryngology runs an international observership focused on Head and Neck Surgical Oncology and Microvascular Reconstruction. The pathway is intentionally direct: interested international trainees and physicians send a CV and interest statement to Sid Puram, MD, PhD, Chief of Head and Neck Surgery. If accepted, the applicant completes paperwork required by the International Office, including confidentiality and HIPAA agreements, proof of health insurance, TB testing, and background check. The appointment is strictly clinical observation: no hands-on patient contact. During the one- to two-month appointment, observers can attend ORs, outpatient clinics, and the weekly multidisciplinary tumor board. WashU does not provide financial support: visa costs, travel, housing, and personal expenses are the observer's responsibility. Because the program is subspecialty-focused and aimed at trained/near-trained H&N surgeons, it is classified as specialty-visiting.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
- Stipend-payingReceives a paid stipend (rare for IMG observerships)
Watch for
- Hands-off observation onlyNo direct patient care or EMR access permitted
- No visa sponsorshipINTL applicants must self-arrange B-1/B-2 visitor visa
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 1 to 2 months of structured clinical experience
- Placement in Otolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgical Oncology / Microvascular
- Direct supervision by attending faculty
- Rounds, case discussions, and bedside teaching participation
How to apply
- Identify a faculty host or coordinator at the program.Many IMG observerships require a faculty sponsor BEFORE you can apply. Use the contact email in the sidebar.
- Submit your application packet directly to the program.Typical packet: CV, USMLE scores or ECFMG certificate, letter of intent, proof of funding, immunizations, and (for INTL) translated medical license.
- Pay any required application or program fee.Many programs charge a non-refundable application fee + per-rotation program fee. See the cost tile above for this program's specific amounts.
- Complete pre-arrival paperwork and visa coordination.Most IMG observerships do not sponsor educational visas — applicants travel on B-1/B-2 visitor status. Confirm before booking travel.
Available specialties
Eligibility requirements
International trainees or physicians interested in head and neck oncology and microvascular reconstruction.
Reviews
User-submitted feedback, moderated before publishing. Separate from the verification badges above (which check source-link provenance, not review endorsement).
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.