Abrazo Health Network Program

The Abrazo Emergency Medicine Residency Program is a comprehensive training initiative designed to equip residents with the necessary skills to excel in the field of emergency medicine. Located within the Abrazo Health Network, this program offers unique opportunities and experiences that ensure a well-rounded educational journey.

Program Highlights

This program operates as a categorical residency at a Level 1 trauma center, providing residents with access to a diverse patient population. The Abrazo system handles over 175,000 emergency department visits annually, offering a rich variety of clinical experiences and learning opportunities. The program emphasizes collaboration and respect among residents, faculty, and staff, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and community service 1.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum of the Abrazo Emergency Medicine Residency is structured to facilitate both education and wellness. Residents engage in a weekly didactic series that includes 5½ hours of interactive conferences, case-based discussions, and resident-led presentations. Additionally, there are monthly journal clubs and bimonthly simulation days to reinforce skills 3.

Residents participate in longitudinal programs focusing on Ultrasound, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and research. The ultrasound experience includes dedicated shifts and specific blocks during training years, enhancing practical skills in this critical area 4.

Clinical Rotations

The program features an extensive clinical schedule beginning from the first year (PGY1), where residents spend 24 weeks in emergency medicine, along with rotations in anesthesia, surgical care, pediatrics, and more. Each successive year includes increasing responsibilities and rotational time in specialized areas such as trauma and pediatric emergency medicine 5.

Research Opportunities

A longitudinal research program is integral to the residency experience, requiring residents to publish or present research findings. Dedicated faculty support is available to guide residents in completing their research projects, emphasizing evidence-based education and investigation as core components of the program 4.

Salary and Benefits

The Abrazo Emergency Medicine Residency provides competitive compensation and benefits. Salaries for PGY1 residents begin at $61,977, with incremental increases for each subsequent year. It also offers comprehensive medical and dental insurance, a life and disability insurance plan, a retirement plan, and allowances for educational resources such as textbooks and software 6.

Leave Policies

In terms of time off, residents receive 21 weekdays for vacation or paid time off (PTO) each academic year. A structured leave policy is in place to support residents who may require extended leave for medical or personal reasons, in compliance with necessary regulations 6.

Application Process

Applying to the Abrazo Emergency Medicine Residency is structured through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and should ideally have graduated from medical school within the last two years. Candidates are permitted no more than one failed exam score in USMLE or COMLEX to be eligible for consideration 2.

Interviews are conducted both virtually and in-person, scheduled on Thursdays throughout the application season. Candidates will receive timely notifications once their applications are reviewed 5.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, typically sponsoring J-1 visas. Additional information regarding visa options is available as part of the application process.

Competitiveness and Inclusivity

The Abrazo Emergency Medicine Residency is competitive, particularly attracting U.S.-trained applicants, yet it is also open to international medical graduates and DO students. The program values diverse perspectives and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment conducive to learning 1.

In summary, the Abrazo Emergency Medicine Residency prepares its residents for success in a rapidly evolving field. With robust clinical experiences, a commitment to research, and a supportive learning environment, residents are well-equipped to meet the challenges of emergency medicine.