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 for those pursuing a career in emergency medicine. The program accepts 10 residents annually and offers numerous advantages for training emergency physicians.

Program Overview

Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is an extensive academic teaching hospital and the only combined Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center in Pennsylvania, which allows residents to experience high patient acuity and a diverse array of clinical presentations. Over 75,000 visits occur annually in the emergency department, with pediatric patients accounting for 19,000 of those visits. The facility includes more than 60 treatment areas, such as resuscitation bays and a recently expanded pediatric emergency department. Advanced technology, including an electronic integrated medical record system and digital radiology, enhances the training environment for residents 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency program offers an immersive curriculum that includes a combination of core and elective rotations designed to prepare residents for independent practice in emergency medicine. During the first year (PGY-1), residents rotate through various specialties including anesthesia, cardiology, medical intensive care unit, obstetrics and gynecology, and trauma surgery, dedicating seven blocks to the emergency department 1.

In the second year (PGY-2), emphasis is placed on refining skills in the emergency department for eight blocks, complemented by clinical exposure in the UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg emergency department, emergency medical services (EMS), surgical anesthesia ICU, and pediatric ICU 1. The third year (PGY-3) consists of 11 blocks in the emergency department focusing on supervisory roles and advanced management skills 1.

Pediatric Exposure

Residents have longitudinal exposure to pediatric emergencies throughout their training. They will begin seeing pediatric patients from the outset and will have dedicated shifts with pediatric emergency faculty, ensuring comprehensive training in this critical area of emergency medicine 1.

Ultrasound Training

The residency incorporates ultrasound training, with residents participating in a dedicated two-week ultrasound rotation during their PGY-2 year to deepen their skills in point-of-care ultrasound. This hands-on experience is essential for expanding diagnostic capabilities 1.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Residents are encouraged to participate in research, with ample opportunities supported by the department. Each resident is expected to complete a scholarly activity project during their training, accelerating their development as physician-scientists 1.

Wellness and Support

Penn State prioritizes the wellness of its residents, offering various resources including emotional, spiritual, social, and physical health support 1. Initiatives such as the BeWell program and participation in a Partners in Medicine group contribute to a supportive training environment.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

The program and the larger hospital system embrace and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Structured programs and initiatives form a framework that allows residents to engage with diverse patient populations and participate in community outreach 1.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

To apply, candidates must submit a completed ERAS application, which includes a personal statement, medical school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and medical examination scores (USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Step I). The program is considered competitive and seeks outstanding candidates. Special consideration is given to DO and IMG applicants, making the program more accessible 1.

The residency offers visa sponsorship for international graduate medical education participants, supporting J-1 or H-1B visas for eligible candidates, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations during the residency period 1.

Additional Opportunities

The program also organizes an Emergency Medical Services Fellowship, providing extensive training in prehospital medicine and patient care, which further enhances opportunities for professional growth within emergency medicine 2.

Conclusion

Overall, the Emergency Medicine Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a rigorous and rewarding program designed to prepare residents for successful careers in emergency medicine through comprehensive training, a strong commitment to wellness, and a focus on diversity and inclusion in healthcare.