HCA Healthcare/Mercer University School of Medicine Program

Program Overview

The HCA Healthcare/Mercer University School of Medicine Program in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation located in North Charleston, offers a comprehensive training approach to prepare residents for a career in this specialized field of medicine. The program emphasizes patient-centered care and focuses on the functional outcomes of individuals with physical disabilities, including patients suffering from stroke, spinal cord injury, neurological disorders, and musculoskeletal conditions. A key aspect of the residency is the interdisciplinary training provided through closely coordinated rotations across different healthcare settings.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is designed to equip residents with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for the practice of physical medicine and rehabilitation. The program incorporates a combination of didactic education and hands-on training through supervised clinical experiences. Residents will explore key areas such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, and rehabilitation principles that underpin effective clinical practice.

Clinical Rotations

Residents participate in various clinical rotations during the training period, which may include:

• Inpatient Rehabilitation: Focused on managing comprehensive rehabilitation for patients with various disabilities.
• Neurology: Exposure to patients with neurological conditions, facilitating an understanding of neuro-rehabilitation.
• Pediatrics: Managing rehabilitation needs for pediatric patients with physical disabilities.
• Orthopedics: Understanding musculoskeletal problems and rehabilitation strategies.
• Electrophysiology: Learning about diagnostic techniques important in physical medicine.

The rotations are integrated with outpatient clinic experience, providing residents with opportunities to apply their learning in real-world settings while developing a patient-centered approach to care.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes the importance of research as a vital component of medical education. Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects that align with their interests in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Opportunities are available for mentorship from faculty members, and residents may also collaborate on research that could contribute to advancements in rehabilitation methodologies or treatment techniques.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The HCA Healthcare/Mercer University program is distinguished by its strong emphasis on community engagement and service. Residents are exposed to diverse healthcare settings, which prepare them for the multidisciplinary aspects of rehabilitation medicine.

Moreover, the program's location in North Charleston offers residents the benefit of a vibrant community, where they can engage in health promotion activities and outreach initiatives aimed at underserved populations.

Training Sites

Resident training occurs at various sites affiliated with HCA Healthcare, which include well-equipped hospitals and rehabilitation centers. These institutions provide residents with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, fostering an environment conducive to learning and professional growth.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates. It typically sponsors J-1 visas, which are essential for foreign physicians who wish to pursue residency training in the United States.

Competitiveness

The residency program is highly competitive, and applicants should ideally possess strong academic backgrounds. Both graduates from Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) schools and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcome to apply, enhancing the program’s diversity and perspective.

Application Requirements

Prospective candidates must meet specific application prerequisites. These may include the year of graduation from medical school, limitations on failed USMLE Step exams, and whether they hold the requisite credentials and experiences necessary for robust training during the residency. Additional details are typically outlined in the program’s official communication materials.