Newsletter

Connections 2024

Inside Duke Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences

Summer 2024

Message from Dr. Francis

Howard Francis

Welcome to the first quarter Connections newsletter of FY25! We are excited to share significant updates and achievements that highlight our commitment to fostering a vibrant learning culture that advances knowledge, practice and health outcomes. This journey begins with our residents and extends throughout our healthcare team members at all levels.

Read more

Duke University sign with flowers in front

Otolaryngology Residency Returns to In-Person Interviews Post-Pandemic

The Duke Otolaryngology Residency Program is set to resume in-person interviews for the first time since transitioning to Zoom during the pandemic. This change is a positive one for both applicants and faculty. 

Hannah Martin and Rovlix Patterson

Developing World-Class Otolaryngology Researchers

There’s more to an otolaryngology residency at the Duke Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences than learning how to provide excellent patient care. Our focus on developing researchers helps set us apart. Research is integrated into both our 5-year traditional program and our 7-year NIH R25 surgeon-scientist track.

Two doctors looking at a screen

Improving Training Through an Iterative and Personalized Approach

Consistently training surgical residents to become skilled and confident surgeons is a core mission with significant challenges for academic medical centers. Balancing surgical training, clinical and administrative duties, and research responsibilities requires an innovative surgical training program. 

Collage of headshots of the members of the Health Equity Leader Group

Increasing Understanding Through the Health Equities Curriculum

To help address inequities faced by patients treated for otolaryngologic and communication disorders at Duke, we implemented a Health Equity Curriculum for our faculty, staff, and trainees. Learn about our progress.

Dr. Josh Smith listening to a person

HNS&CS Faculty Advance Their Careers with Additional Degrees

We recognize that the ability of healthcare team members to deliver compassionate and effective care is directly influenced by their own growth and well-being. This takes a variety of forms related to life-long learning and professional development.

Plant sprouting from the ground

Empowering Leadership Development Through Training Programs

In 2024, several Duke Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences faculty, staff, and trainees completed various training programs to strengthen their professional and leadership skills. Learn about the programs they participated in.