Carolinas Medical Center Program
Location:
Charlotte, NCSpecialty:
Brain injury medicine (Physical medicine and rehabilitation)ACGME Code:
3473634001The Carolinas Medical Center Program in Brain Injury Medicine, part of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department at Carolinas Rehabilitation, offers a robust and comprehensive environment for residents. This program, which has been actively educating residents since its inception in 1992, integrates both clinical training and research, aimed at producing skilled and compassionate physiatrists.
Program Overview
The residency is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and has been awarded the maximum cycle length of five years. The program features a combined categorical and advanced Match program, ensuring a thorough education in all facets of PM&R, including brain injury and spinal cord injury rehabilitation, stroke rehabilitation, and musculoskeletal medicine among others 8.
Facilities and Training Environment
Residents are trained at Carolinas Rehabilitation, which is a leading rehabilitation provider in the United States, comprising a 192-bed CARF-accredited acute rehabilitation facility. It includes inpatient and outpatient services in multiple locations throughout the Charlotte region, creating a diverse clinical experience that prepares residents for various professional paths including academic positions or private practice 8.
Curriculum and Clinical Rotations
The curriculum consists of multiple core rotations and subspecialty experiences designed to provide exposure to a variety of conditions and treatment techniques. Core rotations typically include inpatient and outpatient experiences, with specific rotations dedicated to brain injury, spinal cord injury, and pediatrics, among others. The structure allows residents to gain broad experience while also enabling them to explore specific interests within rehabilitation medicine 5.
Additional monthly workshops and conferences further enrich the educational experience, ensuring residents are engaged and involved in both their training and teaching. Didactic sessions are complemented by numerous subspecialty training opportunities, including electrosdiagnostic medicine and interventional procedures, allowing for a comprehensive learning environment 6.
Research Opportunities
The program places a strong emphasis on research, with residents expected to engage in projects that promote educational growth and ethical standards. The research curriculum is designed to facilitate engagement in clinical trials and investigator-initiated studies, providing a platform for residents to participate actively in ongoing research initiatives 9.
Salary and Benefits
Residents receive competitive salaries, ranging from approximately $61,608 for PGY1 to $73,236 for PGY5. Benefits include 20 paid vacation days per year, health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, and a 401K plan with matching contributions. These benefits aim to support residents' overall well-being during their training 12.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The program is considered highly competitive and is open to applicants from varying backgrounds, including DOs and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Carolinas Medical Center will sponsor various visa types, including J-1, H-1B, and F-1, ensuring support for international applicants. Specific application criteria such as graduation year and STEP failure limits may apply 11.
Diversity and Inclusion
The program emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, striving to create a supportive environment where all residents feel valued. The program actively engages in initiatives that promote diversity in training and encourages residents to partake in community outreach and mentorship opportunities 10.
Living in Charlotte
Charlotte, NC, offers a vibrant living environment with plenty of cultural, recreational, and culinary options, making it an attractive place to live while pursuing residency. Its proximity to both the mountains and the coast provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, while the city itself features numerous amenities and an active social atmosphere 8.
Website
- 1 .Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Residency Overview
- 2 .Chairman's Corner | Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- 3 .Clinical Rotations | Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- 4 .Curriculum | Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Residency
- 5 .Research Program | Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Residency
- 6 .Residency Overview | Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Director
Sima A Desai, MD, MSFellowship Program Director Appointed Since March 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,630First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Charlotte, NC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, NC, is a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. Here are some key aspects to consider when evaluating living in Charlotte:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Charlotte has varying neighborhood safety levels, so it's essential to research specific areas. Overall, the city has a moderate crime rate compared to national averages.
- Fun Activities: Charlotte is filled with activities such as visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame, exploring the U.S. National Whitewater Center, and enjoying the local dining scene.
- Climate: Charlotte experiences all four seasons, with mild winters and hot summers. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of parks and trails year-round.
- Races and Population: Charlotte is a diverse city with a growing population. It hosts numerous cultural events and celebrations throughout the year.
- Education: Charlotte is home to several high-quality public and private schools, as well as universities like the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Charlotte is reasonable compared to other metropolitan areas. Housing costs vary by neighborhood.
- Nearby Big Cities: Atlanta, GA, and Raleigh, NC, are the closest major cities to Charlotte. Both are about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive away. Atlanta offers a diverse cultural scene, while Raleigh is known for its research and technology industries.
- Pros: Charlotte has a thriving job market, a lively arts and culture scene, and proximity to outdoor activities. The city is also considered business-friendly.
- Cons: Traffic congestion can be an issue during rush hours, and the public transportation system is still developing. Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates than others.
Interview Questions
