New York Medical College (Metropolitan) Program

Overview of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Program

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation residency program at New York Medical College (Metropolitan) has a rich history dating back to 1952. This three-year ACGME-accredited training program is specially designed to develop physicians in the field of physiatry, emphasizing clinical excellence, professionalism, and compassionate patient care in a variety of clinical environments.

To achieve its goals, the program consistently updates its curriculum to incorporate new experiences, ensuring that residents receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for the evolving landscape of healthcare.

Curriculum Structure

Training Timeline

Every year, three new residents are accepted, beginning at the PGY-2 level after completing a preliminary year in either internal medicine, general surgery, or family medicine. The structure of the residency training includes:

• PGY-2 Training: 8 months in General Inpatient Rehabilitation, 4 months in an Outpatient MSK Clinic, and twice monthly in Wheelchair Evaluation Clinics.
• PGY-3 Training: Consists of various rotations including Outpatient MSK/EMG/Prosthetics/Orthotics, Pediatric Rehabilitation, Traumatic Brain Injury at Bellevue Hospital, and Pain Management/Spine Procedures.
• PGY-4 Training: Residents engage in Outpatient Spine Procedures, Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Consult Services, and have the opportunity to select electives.

Clinical Training Sites

The program offers diverse clinical training through partnerships with prestigious institutions, including:

• NYC-H+H / Metropolitan Hospital: Focuses on Inpatient Rehabilitation, Electrodiagnostic lab, and various outpatient services.
• NYC-H+H / Bellevue Hospital Center: A Level One Trauma Center featuring a dedicated unit for Traumatic Brain Injury.
• James J Peters VA Medical Center: Involves a range of clinics including SCI rehabilitation services and specialized patient care.
• Blythedale Children's Hospital: Providing pediatric rehabilitation services.
• Hudson Valley VA Health Care Center: Specializes in outpatient procedures and collaborative consultations.

Educational Curriculum and Didactics

Resident education encompasses a robust didactic program with lectures held Thursdays. Topics cover crucial areas like:

• Spinal Cord Injury
• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine
• Neurorehabilitation
• Cancer Rehabilitation

Additional academic opportunities include PM&R Grand Rounds, Journal Clubs, Radiology Rounds, and Anatomy Labs, which greatly enhance the academic environment.1

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research, allowing them to present at various national conferences, which strengthens their career readiness and academic foundation.

Application Requirements

The program has specific application requirements for prospective residents. All applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) and include:

• USMLE or COMLEX Scores
• Medical School Transcripts
• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
• Completed Application and Curriculum Vitae
• Personal Statement

International applicants must also be ECFMG certified and eligible for J1 or H-1B visa sponsorship.

Visas and Competitiveness

The program supports J1 and H-1B visa sponsorship, making it accessible for a diverse group of applicants, including those from international medical schools. The program is known to be competitive, reflecting the high quality of training and unique opportunities available to residents.

Unique Aspects of the Program

What sets this residency apart is its commitment to a holistic education approach, integrating clinical training with personal development avenues for residents. Moreover, its comprehensive exposure to various subspecialties prepares graduates not only to undertake clinical roles but also to contribute to research and academia in the field of rehabilitation medicine.