Old Dominion University Program

The Emergency Medicine Residency Program at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University trains residents to excel in diverse clinical environments while fostering a solid foundation in emergency medicine. This residency prepares individuals to become leaders capable of providing compassionate, evidence-based care in high-stakes scenarios.

Curriculum

The program employs a dynamic curriculum that integrates innovative teaching methods, blending didactic and simulation-based education with hands-on experiences. Residents kick off their training with an intensive boot camp in their first month, which includes Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Advanced Trauma Life Support. The boot camp sessions comprise interactive small group trainings on vital competencies such as advanced airway management and emergency ultrasound, preparing residents for clinical practice from the onset. Furthermore, the program organizes a weekly Grand Rounds featuring local and national experts to enrich the learning experience 1.

Clinical Rotations

Residents gain experience across various clinical settings, leading to a well-rounded educational experience. The primary training site is the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a Level I trauma center renowned for its comprehensive stroke program and emergency services. Additionally, residents rotate through several other facilities, including Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, Sentara Obici Hospital, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, and the Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters. This variety allows residents to acquire critical skills required for success in emergency medicine, including trauma care, pediatrics, and advanced imaging techniques 2.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Residents actively engage in research initiatives and scholarly activities throughout their training. The program encourages inquiry and critical thinking, equipping residents with the tools necessary to contribute to ongoing advancements in emergency care. Faculty and residents have a robust track record of presenting research at various levels, and their work spans a wide array of topics relevant to emergency medicine 3.

Fellowship Opportunities

The residency program also offers several fellowship opportunities for those looking to specialize further. These include the Academic Emergency Medicine Fellowship, Emergency Medical Services Fellowship, Emergency Medicine Ultrasound Fellowship, and Global Emergency Medicine Fellowship. Each fellowship is designed to equip physicians with the specialized skills and competencies needed to excel in their respective areas, ranging from educational mentoring to deploying emergency services internationally 4.

Support and Wellness

The residency program fosters a supportive environment that prioritizes work-life balance and wellness. The Wellness Works program and the Resident Wellness Program provide access to resources intended to support mental well-being, including counseling services, support groups, and community activities. This focus on wellness is backed by a dedicated Wellness and Resilience Committee, facilitating a culture of support and camaraderie among residents and faculty 5.

Application Process

The program maintains competitive admissions criteria. Applications are accepted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), requiring key documentation such as medical school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and USMLE or COMLEX scores, with specific preferences for Emergency Medicine letters. International graduates must also possess an ECFMG certificate before ranking 6.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is competitive and welcomes applications from both MD and DO graduates, demonstrating a friendly approach towards international medical graduates (IMGs). Visa support is available, as the program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visa types for qualified international applicants, ensuring a pathway for diverse talents to join the residency 7.

Overall, the Emergency Medicine Residency Program at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences blends a comprehensive curriculum, diverse clinical experiences, and robust support systems, making it an attractive option for aspiring emergency physicians.