Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Neurology Residency Program is a comprehensive training opportunity for future leaders in clinical and academic neurology. The program is structured to promote increasing levels of autonomy and responsibility over the course of three years, incorporating outpatient continuity clinic time and designated elective and research periods within each year.

Curriculum

The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, with each year focusing on different aspects of neurology:

• PGY-2 Year: The resident's experience primarily involves managing hospitalized patients within the general neurology service. Emphasis is placed on acute neurological disorders, along with rotations in epilepsy, neuro-ophthalmology, and psychiatry.
• PGY-3 Year: This year transitions into more general neurology with residents supervising inpatient services. Residents also gain experience in pediatric neurology, neurophysiology, and neuroradiology, in addition to pursuing further electives in specialized areas.
• PGY-4 Year: Focus shifts to supervising stroke and neuroscience ICU services, along with continued outpatient clinical duties, electives, and dedicated research time.

Throughout these years, residents will participate in a variety of teaching opportunities, including clinical case conferences and an educational lecture series aimed at preparing them for board examinations. Research engagement is mandatory, providing residents with opportunities to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Training Sites

The primary training site, Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest, is one of Pennsylvania's largest teaching hospitals, equipped with a 729-bed capacity and recognized as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. This institution serves as the main facility for neurology patients, providing a wide-ranging exposure to complex neurological cases.

In addition to Cedar Crest, residents have access to Lehigh Valley Reilly Children's Hospital, LVH–Muhlenberg, and various specialized centers ranging from neurosurgery to neurocritical care, ensuring a diverse clinical environment.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal aspect of the residency, with each resident required to complete a distinct research and quality improvement project during their training. Faculty mentors are assigned to assist with these endeavors, along with financial support for presenting research at national conferences.

Facilities

The program is supported by cutting-edge facilities, including advanced imaging centers and specialized neurology clinics. The institutions involved in this residency are known for their comprehensive services in stroke care, neuro-oncology, and other neurological subspecialties.

Application Process

LVHN’s Neurology Residency Program accepts six residents each year. Applicants should register through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and submit their application exclusively through ERAS. A crucial eligibility requirement is to have graduated from medical school within the past two years and to have passed USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 and Step 2 on the first attempt.

Additionally, both H1-B and J-1 visa types are sponsored, emphasizing the program’s openness to international medical graduates. Importantly, candidates must have prior clinical experience in the U.S. and must include at least one neurology rotation recommendation letter in their application.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is noted for being competitive, with a focus on applicants who have demonstrated academic excellence and clinical experience. The requirement for a successful first-attempt pass on licensing exams underlines the program's commitment to maintaining high standards among its residents.

Resident Life and Benefits

Residents at LVHN enjoy numerous benefits, including a $1,500 conference travel allowance, 20 vacation days, and a uniform stipend. The environment is described as collegial, fostering a strong sense of community and support. The program also emphasizes wellness, offering $700 in wellness dollars for residents and their families.

Teaching and Conference Structure

The teaching structure of the residency is robust, featuring various conference formats such as clinical case discussions, neurologic pathology, and general neurology rounds. Regular morbidity and mortality rounds encourage critical thinking and clinical decision-making among residents.