Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Program

The Occupational Medicine Residency Training Program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is a two-year combined academic and practicum experience. This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and focuses on providing residents with a thorough clinical and research experience in the field of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. It aims to equip residents to tackle complex issues in the domain of workplace health and safety and prepares them for various leadership roles in academia, industry, and public health, among other sectors.

One of the program's key components is its robust clinical training at The Mount Sinai Hospital Selikoff Centers for Occupational Health, renowned for its expertise in areas like asbestos and lead toxicity, as well as addressing the health effects related to the World Trade Center disaster. This unique setting fosters an environment where residents gain critical insight and experience through extensive clinical exposure to diverse occupational health challenges.

Curriculum Overview

The program is structured to incorporate academic and practicum phases throughout both years of training. In the first year, residents focus on foundational courses in preventive medicine, including epidemiology, biostatistics, and health care organization. As part of their clinical training, residents start evaluating patients at the Selikoff Centers, develop a longitudinal patient panel, and initiate research projects which contribute to their Master of Public Health (MPH) thesis work.

In the second year, residents delve deeper into advanced clinical and external practicum rotations, further expanding their knowledge and expertise. They immerse themselves in clinical environments, such as at the NYC Department of Health and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, while engaging in advanced courses within the MPH program.

Educational Goals

The program outlines several educational goals for residents, including the application of public health knowledge to occupational health problems, enhancement of clinical skills for assessing workplace suitability, and conducting independent research in occupational medicine. The curriculum also covers critical aspects such as toxicology, environmental monitoring, and policy-making related to occupational health.

Research Opportunities

Residents at the Icahn School of Medicine have access to a myriad of research possibilities, benefitting from competitive funding for various projects and mentoring from experienced faculty. The program is part of the broader NIOSH-funded NY/NJ Education and Research Center (ERC), facilitating abundant interaction with specialists in occupational health.

Resident Benefits

Residents receive a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, dental, optical, and life insurance, as well as short- and long-term disability coverage. They are allocated 20 paid vacation days and 12 sick days, adding to the overall support for their well-being throughout the residency period.

Application Requirements

To apply for the program, candidates must have completed at least one year of training in a clinical residency program accredited by ACGME. The application process requires U.S. citizenship or permanent residency and eligibility for a New York State license. Also, candidates need to complete the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE) steps 1, 2, and 3 prior to application.

Application materials must be submitted through ERAS, including letters of recommendation, a one or two-page statement of career goals in occupational medicine, and other relevant documents. Notably, international medical graduates are welcome, provided they possess an ECFMG certificate and meet additional application criteria.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports visa applications, particularly for J-1 visas, making it accessible for international medical graduates and individuals in need of work authorization.

Competitiveness

The program is highly competitive, particularly for applicants with a strong clinical background. While preference is given to those who have completed full residency training in a clinical field, candidates demonstrating relevant experience and competencies will also be thoroughly considered.