Program Overview
The National Capital Consortium Program in Neurology is a prestigious residency program located in Bethesda, Maryland, within a military medical center. It is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and offers a comprehensive training experience lasting 3 to 4 years, depending on the candidate's previous training. Entrants to the residency must have graduated from medical school and those entering at the PGY-2 level must provide evidence of completing an ACGME-accredited PGY-1 program. The program does not require a categorical year in specialty.
1Mission, Vision, and Goals
The program aims to develop future leaders in military neurology by equipping residents with necessary clinical skills and knowledge. The mission involves ensuring military readiness while contributing to advancements in neurology through research, education, and quality care.
1Curriculum
The curriculum is designed under the direction of the Program Director and focuses on didactic sessions that receive input from the Academic Chief Resident. Residents attend essential conferences aimed at enhancing their neurological knowledge.
Didactics and Conferences
Residents attend scheduled lectures on various neurological topics and also partaking in Chief Rounds and Journal Clubs each month. This format encourages residents to not only learn but engage in collaborative educational discussions.
1Research Component
Research is a vital aspect of the residency, where each resident is expected to complete a research project, particularly during their PGY-2 year, and present findings during the Neuroscience Research Day.
1Training Sites
Training for residents occurs at multiple sites including the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and various hospitals such as the University of Maryland Medical Center and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), allowing exposure to diverse clinical practices.
1Application Process
The application process for the program is competitive. Specific eligibility requirements may include a maximum number of STEP exam failures and year of graduation. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, particularly during peak months.
1International Medical Graduates
The program is known to be DO/IMG friendly, encouraging diverse backgrounds in the candidate pool, although specific competitive thresholds may exist, particularly for visa sponsorships.
1Visa Support
The residency program offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates, including J-1 and H-1B visa types. It is advisable for international applicants to verify visa-related requirements during the application process.
1Competitiveness
Applicants should anticipate a competitive selection process. The program emphasizes the importance of a strong academic record and research involvement.
1Unique Aspects of Training
The NCC Neurology program is distinctive due to its military context, which includes requirements for military readiness training and leadership development classes as part of the curriculum. The program also incorporates advanced simulation training, providing residents with opportunities to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment.
1Wellness and Support
Resident well-being is prioritized through periodic evaluations and support systems provided by faculty advisors. These connections facilitate discussions regarding professional and personal challenges residents may face during their training.
1Teaching Opportunities
A key feature of the residency involves extensive teaching opportunities, allowing residents to engage in both formal education and bedside coaching for junior peers and medical students.
1Clinical Skills Development
Residents will engage in various forms of clinical training, including participation in military-specific scenarios through simulation centers, further enhancing their readiness for real-world situations.
1Website
Director
Glen A Cook, MDDirector, Neurology Residency Appointed Since May 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Bethesda, MD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Bethesda, MD
- Safety: Bethesda is considered a safe area with a lower crime rate compared to other parts of Maryland.
- Fun Activities: Bethesda offers a vibrant arts and culture scene with theaters, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. It also has beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for recreational activities.
- Climate: Bethesda experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant.
- Population: Bethesda is a diverse community with a mix of residents from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Education: Bethesda is known for its excellent public and private schools, making it a family-friendly area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Bethesda is higher than the national average, especially in terms of housing.
- Nearby Cities: Washington, D.C. is approximately 30 minutes away by car, offering a wide range of cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment options.
Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, excellent schools, proximity to Washington, D.C.
Cons: High cost of living, especially housing prices.
Interview Questions
