Corewell Health – Grand Rapids/Michigan State University Program

The Corewell Health – Grand Rapids/Michigan State University Emergency Medicine Residency offers a comprehensive training program structured as a PGY 1-3 format, accepting ten residents annually. The program encompasses rigorous training at two primary locations: Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Both institutions are integral parts of Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals and provide an enriched learning environment that keeps pace with the evolving field of emergency medicine.

Residents engage in a dynamic, interactive academic curriculum that utilizes various teaching methodologies to impart essential knowledge and enhance critical thinking skills. The program emphasizes practical skill development through simulation activities that equip residents with the procedural expertise necessary for effective emergency medicine practice 1.

Training Sites

The training facilities prominently feature Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital, a Level I trauma center that facilitates over 7,600 inpatient admissions annually. It encompasses a range of facilities, including a certified stroke center and in-department radiology services available 24 hours a day. Additionally, residents benefit from a low-acuity fast track covered by physician extenders, which allows increased exposure to critical cases 1.

The Helen DeVos Children's Hospital serves as the pediatric training site, with 20 pediatric beds and clinical decision units for observation. This hospital is also rated as a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and offers access to specialized pediatric care through numerous pediatric physicians across various specialties. Both training sites ensure that residents are well-prepared to handle a diverse range of medical conditions and patient scenarios 1.

Curriculum and Education

The program’s curriculum is designed to adapt to advancements in emergency medicine, featuring interactive didactics that cover essential topics in good detail. Some of the unique educational components include:

• Quarterly interactive sessions focused on ultrasound, research, and EMS/career planning across different PGY levels.
• A comprehensive intensive reading program with monthly journal clubs, EKG and radiology sessions, and morbidity and mortality reviews that promote critical analysis and discussion among residents.
• Hands-on ultrasound training with faculty oversight, ensuring residents gain proficiency in various ultrasound applications pertinent to emergency medicine.
• A dedicated medical toxicology rotation, providing residents with essential knowledge and skills to manage toxicological emergencies effectively 1.

Research Opportunities

The program fosters a strong culture of research; dedicated faculty members provide support and guidance for residents interested in scholarly activities. Research initiatives are encouraged, with structured educational tracks designed for PGY-2 residents to engage in research topics relevant to their training. Throughout the residency, many case reports and research projects are presented at local and national conferences, promoting involvement in the academic community 1.

Resident Development and Wellbeing

Recognizing the demands of residency training, the program emphasizes personal and professional development. Each resident is assigned a mentor who helps navigate challenges, ensuring a supportive environment conducive to growth. Wellness activities, such as annual retreats on the shores of Lake Michigan and ski outings, contribute to the residents’ quality of life 1.

Application Requirements

Applications for the Corewell Health emergency medicine residency are processed exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with a deadline of November 1. Essential application components include:

• A dean’s letter and three letters of recommendation.
• A personal statement and medical school transcript.
• Scores from USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Step 1; scores from USMLE Step 2 or COMLEX Step 2 are preferred.

Visiting medical students are encouraged to apply through the Visiting Student Learning Opportunities program. Additional specific competitive aspects for applicants can be relevant, including consideration for graduates from both MD and DO programs, and IMGs (International Medical Graduates) are welcome, fostering a diverse cohort of residents. Special note on competitiveness is that while a strong academic performance is critical, the program remains accessible to a variety of medical qualifications 1.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports residents through various visa types, permitting sponsorship of J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating the need for international medical graduates to pursue their training within the United States 1.