McLaren Residency & Fellowship Programs

Curriculum

Training at McLaren Oakland

While on McLaren Oakland's service, the residents work with Drs. Carl Shermetaro, Asha Downs, and Gary Kwartowitz at McLaren Oakland and North Oakland ENT Centers, PC. They are exposed to a wide range of otolaryngology procedures. Patient encounters are in private offices, surgical centers, and affiliated hospitals.

Lakeshore Ear, Nose and Throat Center is a large private otolaryngology practice. Many of the physicians are fellowship trained with sub-specialties in Head and Neck Surgery, Otology and Neuro-Otology, Laryngology, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The center also has otolaryngologists with sub-specialty interests in Pediatrics, Rhinology and Sinus Disorders, and Sleep Apnea. The center provides comprehensive tertiary care in all aspects of otolaryngology.

As residents rotate through Lakeshore, they will be exposed to scope and volume that encompasses all aspects of otolaryngology. As they progress through their training, they will participate in complex surgical procedures and increased responsibility for patient care. Opportunities to participate in research and publication are available.

In addition to the clinical and educational experiences at McLaren Oakland and Lakeshore, the residents will be rotating through Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Michigan Ear Institute, University of Michigan, Karmanos Cancer Institute, McLaren Bay Region, and Dr. DeRosa for additional facial plastic experience.

Rotations

Students will "match" directly into the residency and the first postdoctoral year will be considered the first year of residency training. This year includes six months composed of Otolaryngology, two months of Emergency Medicine, and 1 month in each of the following: Plastics, Emergency Medicine, Anesthesiology, General Surgery and ICU. This schedule is in compliance with the ACGME PGY-1 Guidelines for Otolaryngology.

Goals of the PGY-1 year include learning the basics of inpatient and outpatient care, mastery of fundamental surgical techniques, development of interpersonal and communication skills in dealing with patients, families, staff, and colleagues, and development of habits of professionalism.

Sample Schedule:

Plastics - 1 month
ICU - 1 month
Anesthesiology - 1 month
Emergency Medicine - 2 months
General Surgery - 1 month
Otolaryngology - 6 months

PGY-2 residents divide their time between the outpatient department, the operating room, emergency department and hospitals. On non-operative days and afternoons after operating, the PGY-2 resident works in the clinic seeing patients. This includes the initial evaluation and workup of new patients, following existing patients, and pre and post operative evaluations. This clinical experience allows the residents to become thoroughly familiar with the patients and their medical concerns, and allows the resident to follow patient progress and become proficient in the head and neck exam. Preparation of patients for surgery includes explaining procedures to patients and their families, reviewing laboratory and radiologic imaging, and seeing consultations. PGY-2 residents are responsible for performing procedures that include assisting/performing biopsies, control of nasal hemorrhage, incision and drainage of peritonsillar and other abscesses, and excision of skin lesions. Residents participate in the teaching of medical students.

In the operating room, PGY-2 residents are given progressive responsibility to participate in procedures under direct attending supervision. Examples include tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, myringotomy with PE tube insertion, myringoplasty, direct laryngoscopy, I&D of head and neck abscess, and excision of lymph nodes.

PGY-2 residents spend a majority of the PGY2 year with McLaren Oakland, proctored by Dr. Shermetaro, Dr. Kwartowitz, and Dr. Downs. Of the remaining months, time will be spent with Lakeshore ENT, and Karmanos Cancer Institute. Residents also have one month of dedicated research.

Residents take call for both North Oakland ENT and Lakeshore ENT. In addition to the above, PGY-2 residents operate with our Facial Trauma attending, Dr. DeRosa, at McLaren Oakland Hospital, covering the all maxillofacial trauma.

Sample Schedule:

Lakeshore ENT - 3 months (General Otolaryngology)
Lakeshore ENT - 1 month (Head & Neck)
McLaren Oakland Otolaryngology - 5 months
Karmanos Cancer Institute - 2 months
Research - 1 month

The PGY-3 year begins with a one-week basic science course at Indiana University. In the fall, a week-long temporal bone course held at the Michigan Ear Institute is attended by the PGY-3 residents. Additionally, a basic endoscopic sinonasal and skull base course is required during the PGY-3 year.

Residents will spend two months at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Up to three months will be spent at Lakeshore ENT and two months with McLaren Oakland ENT. Residents will do two months of otology, two months of head and neck at The University of Michigan, and one month of research.

PGY-3 residents once again split time between the operating room and clinics. This year, the resident advances their surgical procedures to become more proficient in the basic principles and techniques of septoplasty, endoscopic sinus surgery, submandibular and parotid gland excision, basic otology procedures including tympanoplasty and basic mastoidectomy, basic facial plastic procedures including facial lesion excisions and blepharoplasty. Residents continue to cover and operate with the maxillofacial service.

Sample Schedule:

Otolaryngology Basic Sciences Anatomy and Lecture Series

Research - 1 month
Otology at Michigan Ear Institute - 2 months
Head and Neck at The University of Michigan - 2 months
McLaren Oakland Otolaryngology - 2 months
Lakeshore ENT - 3 months (1 month General Otolaryngology, 1 month Laryngology, and 1 month Head and Neck)
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital - 2 months

As a PGY-4, the resident shares time with both the operating room and the clinic although more time is dedicated to procedures. The resident becomes responsible for head and neck cancer surgery, facial plastic surgery, laryngologic surgery, sinus surgery, and surgery of the major salivary glands.

Residents spend six months at Lakeshore ENT, three months with McLaren Oakland, and two months of Otology at McLaren Bay. They also have one month to work on any pending research projects.

Sample Schedule:

Research - 1 month
Otology at McLaren Bay Region - 2 months
McLaren Oakland Otolaryngology - 3 months
Lakeshore ENT-6 months (5 months Head and Neck and 1 month Laryngology)

The PGY-5 residents, as chief residents, are responsible for running both the Otolaryngological services at McLaren Oakland and Lakeshore ENT. In addition to being more independent in the operating room, they are responsible for junior resident activities, scheduling, and didactic sessions.

The PGY-5 chief residents take a more independent role in the operating room participating in cases which include head and neck cancer surgery, facial plastic surgery, laryngologic surgery, sinus surgery, otologic surgery and surgery of the major salivary glands.

Residents at this level spend four months with Lakeshore ENT and three months with McLaren Oakland. Residents also complete two months of otology during their PGY5. One month is dedicated to research. Additionally, residents are given two months of electives during this year.

PGY-5 residents are encouraged to participate in the basic and advanced allergy & immunology courses offered by the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy.

Sample Schedule:

Research - 1 month
Elective - 2 months
Otology at McLaren Bay Region - 2 months
McLaren Oakland Otolaryngology - 3 months (General Otolaryngology)
Lakeshore ENT - 4 months (3 months Head and Neck and 1 month Laryngology)

Resident Education

Resident Education is an important part of the McLaren Oakland Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency. There are weekly resident didactics consisting of resident run lectures covering topics of the AAOO-HNS COCLIA program, as well as chapters from reference books. Every month, all residents participate in Journal Club. Additionally, residents will attend monthly Grand Rounds and Tumor Board. Residents also partake in monthly “Sip and Study” courses proctored by otolaryngology attending faculty members discussing journal articles or specific book chapters. All residents are required to attend a basic science course at the beginning of PGY-3 year at Indiana University, a temporal bone course, and endoscopic sinonasal/skull base course. The basic and advanced courses in Allergy and & Immunology are encouraged for the residents to attend during the PGY-5 year.

An annual educational stipend is awarded to all residents for use of purchasing books, equipment, and travel/course expenses.

Residents participate in the Educational Program of the Statewide Campus System of the MSUCOM didactic curriculum for Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Residents also have access to the temporal bone laboratory at McLaren Oakland, as well as a yearly Temporal bone lab course with Michigan Ear Institute.

Resident Wellness

The program is committed to resident wellness, and understands the need for a healthy lifestyle balance. As a result, in conjunction with the Medical Education Department, throughout each resident's training experience, they will have access to multiple tools for wellness. Some activities include: a wellness informational, wellness and nutrition, Resident Appreciation Days throughout the year, wellness evaluations, a wellness committee, and other events planned by the residency program throughout the year.

How to Apply

Application Method

Applicants should submit using the Electronic Resident Application Service (ERAS). This is the only avenue by which applications will be considered. Candidates will not get special consideration by circumventing the process and emailing the program director or graduate medical education administrator. This is discouraged.

Eligibility Requirements

All applications must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Ability to carry out the duties as required of the residency program.
Proficient in the English language, to include reading printed and cursive English, writing (printing or typing) English text, understanding spoken English on conversational and medical topics, speaking English on conversational and medical topics as determined by the program director and/or selection committee.
Applicants must be graduates of medical school within the past 5 years from:
- A medical school in the United States or Canada, accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME); or,
- A college of osteopathic medicine in the United States, accredited by the (COCA); or,
- A medical school outside of the United States or Canada and must have a currently valid certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates prior to appointment

Required Documents for Application

Applications are downloaded from ERAS and reviewed for eligibility and completion by the program coordinator. The following information must be received before the application will be considered and before an applicant is invited for an interview:

Medical School Transcript
Personal Statement
Curriculum Vitae
Eligibility to Work Status
Three Letters of Recommendation
Dean's Letter of Reference
Passing Scores on COMLEX 1 and 2, and/or USMLE 1 and 2

Selection Process

The Residency program uses both objective and subjective criteria to select applicants. The Program Director and Selection Committee are responsible for selection and appointment of residents to the program. The application process meets all requirements of the Equal Employment Opportunity and the Americans with Disability Acts and does not discriminate with regard to sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran’s status.

The selection committee selects applicants to interview. Invitations to interview will be made on a rolling basis as applications are reviewed from ERAS.

Criteria for selection include:

Confirmation of eligibility requirements
Performance on standardized medical tests
Must have successfully passed the Level 1 and Level II licensing examination appropriate for the program (COMLEX-USA or USMLE).
Overall academic performance in medical school
Recent clinical training or experience
Demonstrated ability to choose goals and complete the tasks necessary to achieve those goals
Maturity and emotional stability
Honesty, integrity and reliability
Professionalism, verbal and written communication skills
Demonstrated interest and motivation to pursue a career in the specialty of Otolaryngology

Following the interview, the Program Selection Committee reviews the applicant’s file and written interview evaluations and rank the applicant based on the criteria above.

Following completion of discussion by the Program Selection Committee, the Program Director compiles a final rank list in priority order for submission to the NRMP.

Interviews

An applicant invited for an interview should review and be familiar with the terms, conditions and benefits of appointment (and employment) including financial support, vacation, professional leave, parental leave, sick leave, professional liability insurance, hospital and health insurance, disability insurance, and other insurance benefits for the resident and their family, and conditions under which living quarters, meals and laundry or the equivalents are provided. This information will be provided to all interviewed candidates on the date of interview. Applicants can also access much of this information through the Resident Handbook at www.mclaren.org/oakland/gme.

The interview consists of approximately 45 minutes with faculty members, the program coordinator, and resident representatives.

Licensure

All residents are required to have an appropriate training license consistent with state and local requirements during their training. Licenses will be held in the teaching site’s Department of Medical Education. Applicants that are not eligible to obtain a State of Michigan license cannot be considered for McLaren GME programs.

Oakland Resident & Fellow Salary/Benefits

Scholarly Activities

McLaren Oakland allows and encourages participation in biomedical and clinical research programs involving human subjects as well as the development of devices or products for human use. All such research conducted at McLaren Oakland shall be governed by relevant Bioethics Committee policies and reviewed by the hospital's contracted Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Scholarly activity is a component of the core curricula for all residency programs. As such, it is incumbent upon all graduate medical students to engage in at least some research activity. The nature and degree of this activity is subject to the wishes of both the accrediting agencies and the program director. Please refer to the program requirements on the ACGME website for specifics.

Toscano ML, Meenan K, Brennan M, White M, Cohn J, Sataloff RT. Evaluation of stapes mobilization in the 21stCentury for conductive hearing loss in the otosclerotic ear. American Journal of Otolaryngology. 2021 Feb; 42(5). doi.org/10.1016/j.amjoto.2021.10305
Toscano, M. L., Keidar, E. A., & Kwartowitz, G. S. (2022). Recurrent pleomorphic adenoma of the nasal septum with associated bony remodeling: A case report. Otolaryngology Case Reports, 25, 100479.
Savannah Nicks, Austin Johnson, Brett Traxler, Matthew Bush MD, Lacy Brame DO, Tom Hamilton DO, Micah Hartwell PhD; October 2021. “The Use of Person-Centered Language in Scientific Research Articles Focusing on Hearing Loss or Deafness”. Ear and Hearing.
Brett Traxler, Savannah Nicks, Madison Puckett, Kelly Dunn, PhD, Julie Croff, PhD, Micah Hartwell, PhD. September 4, 2021. “The Use of Person-Centered Language in Scientific Research Articles Focusing on Opioid Use Disorder”. Drug and Alcohol Dependence.
Noreikaite G, Toscano ML, Shermetaro CB. Bilateral parotid gland punctate calcifications in Sjögren's Syndrome: a case report. Radiol Case Rep. 2021 Nov 19;17(1):265-267. doi: 10.1016/j.radcr.2021.10.049. PMID: 34849182; PMCID: PMC8609103.
Noreikaite G, Kim SA, Horcher A. Nasal Septal Angioleiomyoma and Septal Sinus Surgery: A Review of 2 Cases. Ear Nose Throat J. 2021 Feb 2:145561321991322. doi: 10.1177/0145561321991322. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33530742.
Lenkeit CP, Fritz CG, Choi JS, et al. Quantifying the impact of shoulder size on operation duration: an analysis of stapes surgery outcomes [published online ahead of print, 2023 May 19]. J Laryngol Otol. 2023;1-20. doi:10.1017/S0022215123000890.
Lenkeit, C. P., Lofgren, D. H., & Zappia, J. (2022). Cardiovascular risk factors and sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A case-control study. Otology & Neurotology, 44(2), 121–125. https://doi.org/10.1097/mao.0000000000003767
Knight B, Lopez MJ, Patel BC. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Eye Levator Palpebrae Superioris Muscles. 2021 Feb 13. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021 Jan–. PMID: 30725606.
Knight B, Bermudez F, Shermetaro C. Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness. 2022 March 25. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. PMID: 35201726.
Benjamin Gillette, Kristen Pitts, A rare case of pancreatic adenocarcinoma metastasis to the parotid gland, Otolaryngology Case Reports, Volume 18, 2021, 100264, ISSN 2468-5488, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xocr.2021.100264.
GilletteB., and LindseyT., “The Effectiveness of Saltwater Gargling on the Prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections”. Osteopathic Family Physician, Vol. 13, no. 4, July 2021, pp. 19–23, https://ofpjournal.com/index.php/ofp/article/view/761.
Lofgren D, Lenkeit C. Mycoplasma Pneumoniae-Induced Rash and Mucositis: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Spartan Med Res J. 2021;6(2):25284. doi: 10.51894/001c.25284. eCollection 2021. PubMed PMID: 34532621; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC8405277.
Lofgren DH, Hilton DB, Brown JC, Ramirez C. Internal Jugular Venous Extension of a Mandibular Osteosarcoma With Literature Review. Cureus. 2021 Oct;13(10):e19012. doi: 10.7759/cureus.19012. eCollection 2021 Oct. PubMed PMID: 34824929; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC8610766
Minutello K, Pinther S, Stachler R. Congenital Pharyngeal Web in an Adult: Treatment of a Rare Clinical Anomaly by Coblation. Spartan Med Res J. 2020 Jun 8;5(1):12473. doi: 10.51894/001c.12473. PMID: 33655178; PMCID: PMC7746068.
Cappello ZJ, Minutello K, Dublin AB. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Nose Paranasal Sinuses. 2022 Mar 25. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. PMID: 29763001.
Lofgren DH, Lenkeit C, Palanisamy J, Brown J. Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Induced Rash and Mucositis with Bilateral Otitis Media and Sinusitis. Cureus. 2020 Mar 28;12(3):e7449. doi: 10.7759/cureus.7449. PMID: 32351828; PMCID: PMC7186110.
Johnson AL, Corcoran A, Ferrell M, et al. Scholarly Research Productivity among Otolaryngology Residency Graduates and its Relationship to Future Academic Achievement. Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology. 2021;130(11):1276- 1284.
Corcoran A, Neale M, Arthur W, et al. Evaluating spin in the abstracts of systematic reviews and meta-analyses on cannabis use disorder. Substance Abuse. Published online July 20, 2021:1-9.
Kadam VR, Vaughn A. A Case of Eosinophilic Angiocentric Fibrosis With Palatal Fistulas. Cureus. 2022;14(10):e30938. Published 2022 Oct 31. doi:10.7759/cureus.30938
Bowers ID, Imlay SP, Schroeder N, Bahu SJ. Retropharyngeal osteolipoma requiring an interdisciplinary approach. Ear Nose Throat J. 2022;101(4):231-233.
Bowers I, Shermetaro C. Keyword article: Adenoiditis. Source StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island 2019 (FL):StatPearls Publishing; 2019-.2019 Jan 1. PMID: 30725616
Toscano ML, Meenan K, Brennan M, White M, Cohn J, Sataloff RT. Evaluation of stapes mobilization in the 21stCentury for conductive hearing loss in the otosclerotic ear. American Journal of Otolaryngology. 2021 Feb; 42(5). doi.org/10.1016/j.amjoto.2021.10305
Toscano ML, Shermetaro C. Stapedectomy. [Updated 2020 Aug 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-.
Savannah Nicks, Austin Johnson, Brett Traxler, Matthew Bush MD, Lacy Brame DO, Tom Hamilton DO, Micah Hartwell PhD; October 2021. “The Use of Person-Centered Language in Scientific Research Articles Focusing on Hearing Loss or Deafness”. Ear and Hearing.
Brett Traxler, Savannah Nicks, Madison Puckett, Kelly Dunn, PhD, Julie Croff, PhD, Micah Hartwell, PhD. September 4, 2021. “The Use of Person-Centered Language in Scientific Research Articles Focusing on Opioid Use Disorder”. Drug and Alcohol Dependence.
Noreikaite G, Toscano ML, Shermetaro CB. Bilateral parotid gland punctate calcifications in Sjögren's Syndrome: a case report. Radiol Case Rep. 2021 Nov 19;17(1):265-267. doi: 10.1016/j.radcr.2021.10.049. PMID: 34849182; PMCID: PMC8609103.
Noreikaite G, Kim SA, Horcher A. Nasal Septal Angioleiomyoma and Septal Sinus Surgery: A Review of 2 Cases. Ear Nose Throat J. 2021 Feb 2:145561321991322. doi: 10.1177/0145561321991322. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 33530742.
Lenkeit, C., Bank, J., & Shirazi, M. (2020). Renal Cell Carcinoma in the Head and Neck: Case Presentation of a Patient with a Rare Metastatic Pattern. Cureus.
Lenkeit CP., Lofgren D H., Shermetaro C (2020). Maxillary Sinus Fracture. In: Stat Pearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): Stat Pearls Publishing;
Knight B, Lopez MJ, Patel BC. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Eye Levator Palpebrae Superioris Muscles. 2021 Feb 13. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021 Jan–. PMID: 30725606.
Knight B, Bermudez F, Shermetaro C. Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness. 2022 March 25. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. PMID: 35201726.
Benjamin Gillette , Kristen Pitts, A rare case of pancreatic adenocarcinoma metastasis to the parotid gland, Otolaryngology Case Reports, Volume 18, 2021, 100264, ISSN 2468-5488, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xocr.2021.100264.
GilletteB., and LindseyT., “The Effectiveness of Saltwater Gargling on the Prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections”. Osteopathic Family Physician, Vol. 13, no. 4, July 2021, pp. 19–23, https://ofpjournal.com/index.php/ofp/article/view/761.
Lofgren D, Lenkeit C. Mycoplasma Pneumoniae-Induced Rash and Mucositis: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Spartan Med Res J. 2021;6(2):25284. doi: 10.51894/001c.25284. eCollection 2021. PubMed PMID: 34532621; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC8405277.
Lofgren DH, Hilton DB, Brown JC, Ramirez C. Internal Jugular Venous Extension of a Mandibular Osteosarcoma With Literature Review. Cureus. 2021 Oct;13(10):e19012. doi: 10.7759/cureus.19012. eCollection 2021 Oct. PubMed PMID: 34824929; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC8610766
Minutello K, Pinther S, Stachler R. Congenital Pharyngeal Web in an Adult: Treatment of a Rare Clinical Anomaly by Coblation. Spartan Med Res J. 2020 Jun 8;5(1):12473. doi: 10.51894/001c.12473. PMID: 33655178; PMCID: PMC7746068.
Cappello ZJ, Minutello K, Dublin AB. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Nose Paranasal Sinuses. 2022 Mar 25. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. PMID: 29763001.
Palanisamy JC, Jenzer AC. Ameloblastoma. 2022 Jul 4. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. PMID: 31424749.
Lofgren DH, Lenkeit C, Palanisamy J, Brown J. Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Induced Rash and Mucositis with Bilateral Otitis Media and Sinusitis. Cureus. 2020 Mar 28;12(3):e7449. doi: 10.7759/cureus.7449. PMID: 32351828; PMCID: PMC7186110.

Awards

Third place recipient in the AOCOO-HNS 2022 Annual Clinical Assembly manuscript competition (Dr. Chris Lenkeit)
Third highest score in Otolaryngology Training Examination (OTE) at AOCOO-HNS in 2022 (Dr. Chris Lenkeit)
Runner-Up Resident Quiz Bowl, Michigan Otolaryngologic Society (July 2022 – Drs. Dan Lofgren and Ben Gillette)
American Osteopathic Colleges of Otolaryngology and Ophthalmology Travel Grant (2022, 2023) (Dr. Dan Lofgren)
1st Place Michigan State University Otolaryngology Poster Presentation Day 2023 (Dr. Ben Gillette)

Teaching Faculty

Program Director

Carl B. Shermetaro, DO, FAOCO

Dr. Shermetaro is board certified in Otolaryngology. Dr. Shermetaro is a 1988 graduate of Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (now known as Midwestern University). He completed his ENT/Facial Plastics residency at Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital (now known as McLaren Oakland) in 1993. Dr. Shermetaro is currently the McLaren Oakland Residency Program Director of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr Shermetaro is responsible for overseeing all of the resident's progress throughout their training. This includes monitoring surgical scope and volume, educational activities, and core competencies.

Core Faculty

Amy P. DeRosa, DO

After receiving her medical education from Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Vallejo, California, Dr. DeRosa served her first year of post-graduate clinical training at Exempla St. Joseph Medical Center in Denver, Colorado. She went on to finish residency training in general surgery at Mt. Clemens Regional Medical Center, serving as chief resident in her final year. Dr. DeRosa completed the plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at Botsford.
Asha J. Downs, DO

Dr. Downs is board certified in Otolaryngology. Dr. Downs is a 1999 graduate of the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her ENT/Facial Plastics residency at McLaren Oakland in 2004. Dr. Downs oversees residents while they are on rotation at McLaren Oakland. Dr. Downs serves as a member of the Program Evaluation Committee and is Chair of The Clinical Competency Committee.
Michael S. Fozo, MD

Dr. Fozo is board certified in both Facial Plastic- Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. He specializes in all aspects of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, especially cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty, anti-aging procedures, and skin cancer surgery. He earned his B.A. from Tufts University and graduated with honors from New York Medical College. He completed his residency at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary. He serves as section chief of Otolaryngology at William Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital. Dr. Fozo, as Site Director of Lakeshore ENT, is responsible for the residents’ surgical experience as well as office experience while on the Lakeshore rotation. He monitors what cases residents participate in depending on their level of training and skill.
Michael R. Higginbotham, DDS, MD

Dr. Higginbotham completed his undergraduate studies in biology at the University of Detroit Mercy. He went on to attend the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree (DDS). Following dental school, he extended his training and expertise in the surgical field by earning a Medical Degree (MD) from Wayne State University School of Medicine. Dr. Higginbotham completed his residency training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the Detroit Medical Center. Dr. Higginbotham is board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS).
Robert John, DDS, MD

Dr. Robert John graduated from the University of Toronto with a bachelor’s degree in economics and science. He then attended the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, graduating with honors. He completed his general practice residency at the Medical College of Ohio, where he was awarded Otolaryngology Resident of the Year. He went on to pursue a Doctor of Medicine Degree (MD, DDS) with honors from Wayne State School of Medicine. He completed his general surgery internship at St. John’s Medical Center and his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at the Detroit Medical Center. Dr. John is board-certified and a diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS).
Gary S. Kwartowitz, DO

Dr. Kwartowitz is board certified in Otolaryngology. Dr. Kwartowitz is a 1993 graduate of the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his ENT/Facial Plastics residency at Botsford General Hospital in Farmington Hills, Michigan in 1998. Dr. Kwartowitz is currently the Chairman of the ENT Department at McLaren Oakland. Dr. Kwartowitz oversees residents training while on rotation at McLaren Oakland. Dr. Kwartowitz serves as a member of the Clinical Competency Committee and is Chair of the Program Evaluation Committee.
Adam D. Rubin, MD

Dr. Rubin is board certified in Otolaryngology and sub-specializes in the evaluation and treatment of voice and swallowing disorders. He earned his B.A. at Yale University and his medical degree at Harvard University. Dr. Adam D. Rubin completed his residency at the University of Michigan and his fellowship in Laryngology and Care of the Professional Voice at the American Institute of Voice and Ear Research.
Eric Succar, MD

Dr. Eric Succar is a board certified Otolaryngologist (ENT) and fellowship trained Rhinologist (Sinus Surgeon). Dr. Succar attended Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed his residency at Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania. He completed a one-year fellowship in advanced sinus and endoscopic skull base surgery at Vanderbilt University.

Current Trainees

Current Residents

Christopher Lenkeit, DO

PGY-5 Resident

Medical School: Midwestern University- Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

Daniel Lofgren, DO

PGY-5 Resident

Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine

Brandon Knight, DO

PGY-4 Resident

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine

Michael Toscano, DO

PGY-4 Resident

Medical School: NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine

Benjamin Gillette, DO

PGY-3 Resident

Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Carolinas Campus

Katrina Minutello, DO

PGY-3 Resident

Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Savannah Nicks, DO

PGY-2 Resident

Medical School: Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine

Gabriele Noreikaite, DO

PGY-2 Resident

Medical School: Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

Adam Corcoran, DO

PGY-1 Resident

Medical School: Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine

Vaibhav Kadam, DO

PGY-1 Resident

Medical School: University of Pikeville – Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine

Contact Us

Cheri VanConant
Academic Program Administrator
Email: cheri.vanconant@mclaren.org
Phone: 248-338-5392
Fax: 248-338-5567

McLaren Oakland Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residency Program
50 N. Perry Street, Pontiac, MI 48342 | Google Maps

For rotation information please contact the Student Coordinator:judy.guthro@mclaren.org

Additional Info

Quick Links

Affiliated ENT centers:

Commonly used websites:

Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residency Alumni

Where our Graduates Go

2023

Ian Bowers, DO (Laryngology Fellowship - University of California)
Jaishree Lerew, DO (Head & Neck Fellowship - Henry Ford Hospital)

2022

Colin Byrd, DO (Private Practice-NM)
Eytan Keidar, DO (Laryngology – University of Miami)

2021

Colin Bohr, DO (Pediatric-Washington DC)
Jens Brown, DO (Private Practice-Altoona, WI)

2020

Daniel Hilton, DO (Private Practice-NV)
Jeffrey Singh, DO (Otology – Puget Sound)

2019

Matthew Mors, DO (Private Practice-ID)

2018

Quynh-Nhu Vu, DO (Hospital Employed-OH)
Janine Amos, DO (Pediatric- John Hopkins)

2017

Sheila Parrish, DO (Private Practice-SC)
Jessica West, DO (Cosmetic-CA)

2016

McDonald Arnot, DO (Private Practice-Sherman, TX)
Michael Drobbin, DO (Cosmetic-NY)

2015

Matthew Blair, DO (Private Practice-FL)
Jason Chesney, DO (Pediatric- MUSC)

2014

Brian Lee, DO (Rhinology-University of Pitt; NH)
Christina Mimikos, DO (Head and Neck-Roswell Park)

2013

Ahmed Maki, DO (Cosmetic-Los Angeles, CA)
Adam Rourke, DO (Rhinology-Sarasota, FL; Detroit, MI)

2012

Suzie Kirch, DO (Private Practice-Mount Vernon, OH)
Kim Ostrowski, DO (Private Practice-Seneca, SC)

2011

Crystal Coleman, DO (Private Practice-IA)
Noah Stern, DO (Program Director DMC)

2010

Dan Boxwell, DO (Private Practice-Seneca, SC)

2009

Ellen Baxter, DO (Private Practice-Sylvania, OH)
Nicholas Lukacs, DO (Private Practice-Charlotte, NC)

2008-2000

2008 Russel Mayes, DO (St. Luke’s-Twin Falls, ID)
2007 Joe Belanger, DO (Private Practice-Grand Haven, MI)
2006 Peter Ngyuyen, DO (Private Practice-Fountain Valley, CA)
2005 Paul DiPasquale, DO (Private Practice-Wesley Chapel, FL)
2004 Asha Downs, DO (Faculty McLaren Oakland)
2003 Ryan Michell, DO (Private Practice-Henderson, NV)
2002 Henry Lipps, DO (Private Practice-Champaign, IL)
2001 Shannon Radgens, DO (Memorial Healthcare-Owosso, MI)
2000 Daren Kest, DO (Head and Neck-IN; Phoenix, AZ)

Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residency - McLaren Oakland

Welcome to Our Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residency - McLaren Oakland Program

A Message from the Program Director

Accreditation

Primary Training Site

Curriculum

Training at McLaren Oakland

Rotations

The First Year

The Second Year

The Third Year

The Fourth Year

The Fifth Year

Resident Education

Resident Wellness

Carl B. Shermetaro, DO, FAOCO

Amy P. DeRosa, DO

Asha J. Downs, DO

Michael S. Fozo, MD

Michael R. Higginbotham, DDS, MD

Robert John, DDS, MD

Gary S. Kwartowitz, DO

Adam D. Rubin, MD

Eric Succar, MD

Cheri VanConant