Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University Health Program

The Adult Neurology Residency Program at Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital offers a robust training experience for residents. The program is guided by a distinguished faculty representing diverse subspecialties of neurology and is dedicated to fostering a comprehensive educational environment.

Rhode Island Hospital, being the largest hospital in the state, serves as a tertiary referral center for a wide array of neurological conditions. This setting provides residents with extensive clinical exposure while supporting their involvement in clinical research, community engagement, and advocacy initiatives at both local and national levels 1.

Program Structure

The residency consists of a total of 18 residents, with 6 new residents accepted each year. The program model follows an advanced structure rather than a categorical one, meaning that residents are not required to complete their preliminary year at Brown, although it is encouraged 2.

New residents undergo a thorough orientation that includes training in neurological emergencies, along with simulation sessions to boost hands-on experience 2.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum comprises an innovative 2+4 block schedule where residents alternate between two weeks of outpatient rotations, including three continuity clinic sessions per week, followed by four weeks of inpatient rotations. Each resident’s experience is designed to ensure a cumulative understanding of both outpatient and inpatient care models 3.

Residents have a dedicated continuity clinic backed by clinical staff and receive ample vacation time—three weeks during PGY-2 and PGY-3 years, and four weeks during PGY-4 4.

Unique Tracks

The program offers three optional tracks starting in PGY-3 that do not extend residency length. These include the Clinician Educator Track, focusing on medical education, the Research Track for those interested in dedicated time for research, and the BRIGHT Pathway for Global Health, which facilitates international elective experiences 4, 5.

Research and Academic Enrichment

While research during residency is optional, residents interested in engaging with research are provided with ample support. Those presenting at regional or national conferences receive funding for registration, travel, and accommodation, in addition to a $1500 educational allowance 6, 7.

On-Call Responsibilities

Residents involved in on-call duties at Rhode Island Hospital are expected to triage new consults and provide support to other residents and advanced practice providers covering inpatient neurology services. There’s a comprehensive backup system where more senior residents and faculty members provide assistance to on-call residents as needed 8.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program values diversity and actively encourages applications from international medical graduates (IMGs), requiring them to possess a J1 visa, Green Card, or US citizenship, and to be certified through the ECFMG 2, 9. It is advised that applicants should ideally not exceed a set number of failed STEP exams, although specific limits may be detailed during the application process.

Applications are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) with interviews conducted virtually and scheduled through the Thalamus program 10.

Visa Support

The program supports J1 visa sponsorship for international applicants, facilitating the entry of diverse medical professionals into the residency training environment. This commitment underscores Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital's dedication to an inclusive educational setting that enriches the learning experience for all residents.