I'm applying to GPR programs and am looking at a few VA hospitals. Based on experience does it seem like they are mostly structured the same or are there large differences from program to program? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!
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I just finished a GPR program at VA Mare Island and have rotated through VA SF. I've also talked to friends who went to VA Palo Alto, and also from read on SDN about people's experiences at other VAs. I would say that each program is pretty different from one another. The experiences you get depend largely on the the needs of the local vet population, any affiliation the program might have with other dental specialty programs, and whatever the program director feels is important to emphasize. When you talk to programs, make sure to think about what you hope to get out of the program and that they can help you achieve that goal.
The quality of the programs varies widely between facilities. Some VA centers are much larger than others, offering exposure to a wider range of patients, procedures, and rotations. Others are much smaller and the residency experience reflects that.
How was your experience at Mare Island? Also how was the VA in SF? I have been considering applying to both of these. I am also applying to Palo Alto. My grades and class rank are weak however I have a ton of extra currics and great letters of rec. part 1 score is a 83, but that was a second attempt (I explained it in my application). Perhaps that was too much information, either way, how was your time at the GPR?