Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program

The Child Neurology Residency Program at Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School is a fully accredited five-year program designed for aspiring child neurologists. This program offers two years of pediatric residency training followed by three years of specialized training in child neurology, in accordance with the guidelines set by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Graduates of the program will be eligible for the ABPN’s certification examination in “Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology” 1.

The primary objective of the program is to cultivate competent child neurologists equipped to pursue diverse clinical, educational, and research interests. To achieve this aim, the program provides extensive clinical training, research involvement, teaching experience, and a comprehensive series of didactic lectures and conferences 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured based on ABPN and ACGME recommendations and undergoes an annual review to incorporate feedback from both faculty and residents. Training is divided into 13 four-week blocks and includes mandatory rotations to ensure broad clinical exposure. The first two years of pediatric training occur at the Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, exposing residents to various aspects of primary, subspecialty, and critical care pediatrics 1.

Upon entering the neurology training phase (PGY-3), residents focus on enhancing their neuroanatomy knowledge and clinical skills, primarily through a series of adult neurology rotations. Outpatient care, which is a crucial aspect of child neurology, is emphasized through continuity clinics offered each week during the three years of neurology training 1.

Clinical Rotations

The training encompasses both inpatient and outpatient activities. Inpatient activities are predominantly conducted at University Hospital, where residents are involved in critical cases through the Child Neurology Service and Video EEG Monitoring Unit. Outpatient care rotations allow residents to engage with various subspecialty clinics, including but not limited to the Pediatric Seizure Clinic, ADHD Clinic, and the Neurology Rare Disease Clinic 1.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages residents to participate in research through a dedicated mentorship initiative, guiding them in designing and implementing research projects under faculty supervision. This engagement not only enhances residents' understanding of research methodologies but also leads to opportunities for presentations at national and international conferences 1.

Training Environment

Resident wellness is a paramount concern within the program. Rutgers NJMS offers counseling services and wellness programs aimed at supporting residents' mental health amidst the high demands of a rigorous training regimen 5. Moreover, the program emphasizes a collaborative environment, encouraging social interactions and bonding between residents and faculty through various events and activities 4.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The Child Neurology Residency Program at Rutgers maintains a competitive applicant pool and welcomes international medical graduates (IMGs). Prospective residents must possess an ECFMG certificate and have passed USMLE Steps 1 and 2 to be considered. The program sponsors J-1 visas for international applicants 9. A singular application via ERAS is required, focusing on both pediatric and child neurology training, consolidating the need for two separate applications 9.

Housing and Living in Newark

Residents at Rutgers NJMS have the option to live on campus in a newly designed housing complex located just a short walk from University Hospital. Off-campus housing is also plentiful, with options in nearby suburbs offering easy access to the medical center 10. Newark itself is a vibrant urban center, boasting rich culture, dining, and recreational options 11.

Salary and Benefits

Residents are supported through a competitive salary structure and a robust benefits package. Detailed information regarding salary and additional benefits can be found through the program's resources 2.