Aultman Hospital/NEOMED Program

The Aultman Emergency Medicine Residency Program is a distinguished three-year program designed to prepare physicians for a career in emergency medicine. This program aims to equip residents with a comprehensive knowledge base and the clinical skills necessary for delivering high-quality emergency care. The program is affiliated with Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) and holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).

Aultman Hospital's Emergency Department serves as a Level II Trauma Center, providing care to over 75,000 patients annually. Graduates of the residency program are eligible for board certification upon completion. The faculty involved in the program boast decades of experience in emergency medicine education and are committed to fostering new and innovative strategies within the curriculum.

Program Structure

The program seeks to achieve several key objectives: developing residents into experts in emergency medicine, promoting advocacy and leadership within the community, instilling lifelong learning skills, and creating an environment that prioritizes physician wellness (1). Aultman Hospital, with its 1,032-bed capacity, provides a resident-friendly setting that emphasizes individualized educational goals and an overall enriching experience.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is structured over three years. During the intern year (PGY-1), residents will participate in rotations including emergency medicine, pediatric emergency medicine, intensive care, cardiology, OB-GYN, anesthesia, and orthopedics. The second year (PGY-2) continues this trend with rotations focused on trauma, resuscitation, and additional electives, while the third year (PGY-3) emphasizes emergency medicine, pediatric emergency medicine, and includes administrative and ultrasound electives. The residents benefit from protected conference time on Thursday mornings, which includes lectures, simulations, and procedural labs (3, 7).

Rotations and Training Sites

Residents undertake various rotations throughout the program, including dedicated rotations at Akron Children's Hospital for pediatric emergency medicine and pediatric intensive care, as well as a rotation at MetroHealth dedicated to trauma. The overall structure consists of 13 four-week blocks annually, ensuring diverse clinical exposure and comprehensive training (2, 6). Notably, the average pediatric volume handled in the emergency department is around 18%.

Resident Life and Support

The program values the well-being of its residents and fosters a supportive learning environment. Close collaboration occurs with fellows and residents from related specialties such as Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, OB-GYN, and Cardiology. The blend of a robust clinical curriculum and a collegial atmosphere contributes to a fulfilling training experience.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The Aultman Emergency Medicine Residency Program is known to be competitive, welcoming applicants from both MD and DO backgrounds, as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Specific application prerequisites include a demonstrated interest in emergency medicine and a robust academic performance. The program does not list a specific limit on failed STEP exams but emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation and preparation for candidates. Additionally, support for visa sponsorship is available for qualifying international applicants, including H-1B and J-1 visa types.

Research Opportunities and Unique Aspects

Research opportunities at Aultman are embedded within the educational framework, allowing residents to engage in scholarly activities that complement their clinical training. The program is committed to procedural instruction and uses simulations and real-life scenarios to enhance resident confidence and competence.

Conclusion

The Aultman Emergency Medicine Residency Program offers a comprehensive, innovative, and supportive environment for residents aiming to excel in emergency medicine. Its combination of rigorous training, diverse clinical experiences, and an emphasis on faculty involvement and mentorship makes it a desirable choice for prospective emergency medicine physicians.