Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Emergency Medicine Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a three-year, ACGME-accredited program, designed to produce well-rounded emergency physicians. The program accepts a total of 10 residents per year, providing a structured yet flexible training environment tailored to foster both professional and personal growth.

Program Overview

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is an extensive academic teaching hospital, recognized as the only combined Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center in Pennsylvania. The emergency department (ED) experiences over 75,000 patient visits annually, which includes approximately 19,000 pediatric cases, ensuring a diverse patient population essential for effective training. The ED infrastructure includes more than 60 treatment areas, high-acuity resuscitation bays, an observation unit, and a specialized pediatric emergency department.

Residents benefit from high patient acuity and exposure to both common and rare clinical presentations. This diverse clinical environment is key to developing the competence and confidence required in emergency medicine.

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum of the Emergency Medicine Residency incorporates several core components designed for comprehensive training across various specialties:

Clinical Rotations

1. **PGY-1:** Residents complete seven blocks in the emergency department, alongside rotations in anesthesia, cardiology, medical intensive care unit, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and trauma surgery.

2. **PGY-2:** The second year consists of eight blocks dedicated to the emergency department, including a block at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, enhancing the residents' exposure to urban emergency care.

3. **PGY-3:** The final year includes 11 blocks in the emergency department, administrative responsibilities, and elective opportunities to explore personal interests within the field.

Pediatric Exposure

Pediatric training is integral throughout residency. From the onset of training, residents encounter pediatric patients, further supplemented by dedicated shifts under pediatric emergency medicine faculty supervision.

Critical Care and EMS Training

Residents have opportunities to manage critically ill patients within both medical and surgical intensive care units. They also participate in emergency medical services (EMS) rotations, providing a comprehensive understanding of prehospital care.

Wellness and Support

The program emphasizes wellness and resilience among residents. They are afforded three weeks of vacation yearly, and additional support systems are available, such as BeWell programs and community networking opportunities.

Research Opportunities

Dedicated time and resources are available for residents to engage in research projects, fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation. Each resident is expected to complete a scholarly activity during their training period.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Penn State Health promotes diversity and equity through various initiatives. The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion provides extensive support and resources aimed at creating an inclusive environment for all trainees.

Application Process and Requirements

The residency program is competitive, welcoming applications from both MD and DO candidates, including international medical graduates. Applicants must submit a completed ERAS application, including a personal statement and letters of recommendation. A maximum of one failed attempt on the USMLE Step exams is accepted.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates, facilitating a smooth transition into residency.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program engages residents in unique opportunities such as event coverage at major Penn State football games, ensuring a well-rounded experience encompassing both clinical and community care.