Chief Resident's Message
Welcome to the University of Texas Medical Branch Department of Anesthesiology, and thank you for your interest in our residency program. As the oldest anesthesiology training program in the state of Texas we pride ourselves on having produced caring and competent graduates who have gone on to practice in diverse settings, conduct important research, and participate in the governance of our specialty at state and national levels. For over 80 years, our program has enjoyed a nationwide reputation for producing superior clinicians, and we still rise to that expectation.
Our main campus features a Level I Trauma center with 20 general operating rooms, a robust interventional cardiology suite, as well as additional remote locations including GI, MRI and interventional radiology. Obstetric rotations begin early and include a high volume of patients that facilitate early independence and aptitude in caring for the parturient. We provide surgical and critical care for most inmates in custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, a partnership that enables residents to learn to care for this unique population. The on-campus Shriners Children’s hospital is a favorite rotation among our residents who become adroit with difficult airways and burn resuscitations as we care for critically ill children from around the world. We enjoy a satellite campus in nearby Clear Lake where we work closely with CRNAs in a setting that exposes us to the pace and expectations more akin to private practice.
While Galveston is a tourist destination for the people of Southeast Texas, it remains a relatively affordable place to live. Living in Galveston provides proximity to the beach, year-round outdoor sports and saltwater recreational activities. There is a small downtown and harbor front area with shopping, dining, and entertainment. The climate on the island is enjoyable year-round. The ocean views from our hospital make for a picturesque backdrop for our work. The proximity to Houston allows for easy travel from Bush International or Hobby airport.
Despite all that we offer, it’s our people who make UTMB great. Our faculty and staff are as unique and diverse as the experiences that they shepherd us through. The genuine respect and camaraderie between faculty members and residents promotes lifelong friendships. Our department leaders listen to residents’ concerns and advocate for our education and wellness. We also have many family-friendly departmental activities throughout the year such as happy hours, mentor dinners, and the annual crawfish boil where alumni also join.
UTMB is a wonderful place to train and live. If you think you might fit in here as well, please reach out to any of us with any questions.
Sincerely,
Ahmed Butt, Patrick Finegan, Lauren Rein and Peter Petrillo
UTMB Anesthesiology Chiefs