Residency Advisor
Hershey, PA

Specialty:

Physical medicine and rehabilitation

ACGME Code:

3404100089

NRMP Program Code:

1617340A0, 1617340R0
STEP 200 Research Focused DO FriendlyJ1

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a three-year advanced residency program, fully accredited by the ACGME, which admits four residents each year. The program aims to provide extensive training and experience within both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation medicine, making it a robust choice for future physiatrists.

The program is centered around one of the most advanced medical facilities in Pennsylvania, which boasts 551 licensed beds and serves as both an adult and pediatric Level 1 trauma center. The Penn State Rehabilitation Hospital, opened in 2010, has become a cornerstone of the training environment, enhancing the residency experience with its dedicated facilities for rehabilitation, including a Wound Care Center and an Outpatient Day Program, which was expanded in 2014 to accommodate increasing demand.

Program Curriculum

The residency program offers comprehensive didactic and clinical training throughout its duration. The curriculum includes weekly educational sessions such as Morbidity and Mortality case presentations, Grand Rounds, and PM&R Research Lecture Series. Residents also participate in monthly Journal Clubs to critically evaluate current research in the field.

Specific training topics and rotations are designed to provide a well-rounded educational experience. For instance, PGY-2 residents focus on Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, and Stroke Rehabilitation, while PGY-3 residents engage in Pediatric Care, Neurophysiology, Sports Medicine, and Interventional Pain Management. PGY-4 residents hone their skills in consults, wound care, and advanced procedures.

Research Opportunities

The program promotes a strong research culture through its PM&R Research Laboratories, which include facilities for exercise and locomotor training. Additionally, residents have the opportunity to engage with the Penn State Clinical and Translational Science Institute, focusing on translating research into clinical practice. Annual events such as the Resident/Fellow Research Day further allow residents to showcase their research and engage with the broader academic community.

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), which must include a curriculum vitae, personal statement, medical school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Candidates are expected to have competitive scores on the USMLE or COMLEX, with a general threshold of around 220 being considered competitive. U.S. clinical experience is preferred, and candidates must also be certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) if they are international medical graduates.

Visa Support

The program supports international medical graduates by offering J-1 visas exclusively, processed through the ECFMG. Other visa types are not sponsored. All international applicants must ensure they are ECFMG-certified before the match process, although certification is not required at the time of application.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The program is considered competitive, attracting a wide range of applicants, including those from international backgrounds. It is important for potential candidates to meet the stringent criteria established by the residency program. Additionally, the program embraces diversity, actively promoting an inclusive learning environment through dedicated resources and opportunities for residents from underrepresented backgrounds.

Wellness and Support

Recognizing the importance of well-being in the training process, the residency emphasizes wellness initiatives through several channels. Resources are available for emotional, spiritual, and physical health support. These resources include programs like BeWell and the Partners in Medicine group, which help facilitate connections among residents, their families, and the local community.

In summary, the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center represents an opportunity for extensive training, research involvement, and professional development within a supportive and diverse environment.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

4, 4, 4 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2015

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

60 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

24 hours

First Year Salary:

$67,335

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:
57%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.2X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:
200
Visa Sponsorship:
J1
YOG Cutoff:
-

Match History

Track: 1617340A0

2024

4 of 4

2023

4 of 4

2022

4 of 4

2021

4 of 4

2020

4 of 4

Track: 1617340R0

2024

1 of 1

2023

0 of 1
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Hershey, PA

Population
13,858
Income
$78,750
Education
49.1%
Employment
62.9%
Health
2.2%
Age
46
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Hershey, PA

Hershey, PA is a charming town known for its chocolate production. Here are some aspects of living in Hershey

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    Hershey is generally considered a safe town with a lower crime rate compared to larger cities.
  • Fun Activities
    Residents can enjoy attractions like Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World, and various events hosted by the Hershey Entertainment Complex.
  • Climate
    Hershey experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters.
  • Races and Population
    The population of Hershey is diverse, with a mix of various races and ethnicities.
  • Education
    Hershey is home to the Milton Hershey School and several public schools known for their quality education.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Hershey is generally higher than the national average, particularly in terms of housing.
  • Proximity to Bigger Cities
    Harrisburg, the capital of Pennsylvania, is about 15 miles away from Hershey and can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by car. Harrisburg offers more city amenities and cultural attractions.

Pros
Charming town with a strong sense of community, abundance of family-friendly activities, and proximity to larger cities.

Cons
Higher cost of living, limited nightlife options compared to big cities.

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