Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program
Location:
Newark, NJSpecialty:
Pediatric rehabilitation medicineACGME Code:
3463334022The program at Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School offers a comprehensive and fully accredited three-year residency program in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). This program, which begins at the PGY-2 level, is designed to equip residents with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of physiatry. Recognized for its excellence, the program has continued accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and has received commendations for its exceptional educational curriculum and robust scholarly activities.
The educational foundation is underpinned by a core curriculum that encompasses various aspects of rehabilitation, emphasizing not only the physiological and psychological dimensions of recovery but also the collaborative nature of rehabilitation efforts across disciplines. Faculty members are deeply involved in training and mentorship, fostering an environment conducive to professional growth and academic inquiry 1.
Training Structure
Residents engage in a comprehensive curriculum that spans adult and pediatric rehabilitation across several esteemed training sites. The training begins with internships focusing on crucial foundational skills, followed by rotations through major institutions such as the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, which is celebrated as one of the top rehabilitation facilities in the United States.
Core Rotations
The residency includes a scaffolded series of rotations at premier facilities:
- Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation: Residents experience diverse inpatient settings including spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, and amputation rehabilitation.
- University Hospital, Newark: This Level 1 Trauma Center offers opportunities to conduct neuro trauma consults and manage complex cases involving acute spinal and brain injuries.
- Children's Specialized Hospital: Dedicated pediatric rotations focus on rehabilitation for children with conditions like cerebral palsy and spina bifida.
- VA New Jersey Health Care System: Exposure to veteran populations provides unique insights into chronic pain management, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and multispecialty outpatient care.
Curriculum and Didactics
A didactic curriculum spans an 18-month cycle, addressing comprehensive topics such as:
- Stroke and Brain Injury Rehabilitation
- Spinal Cord Injury Management
- Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
- Epidemiology of Neurologic Disorders
- Peds Rehabilitation Issues including Cerebral Palsy
Workshops offer hands-on training in dysphagia evaluations, neuroimaging interpretation, and orthotics management, ensuring that residents receive practical training alongside theoretical knowledge 2.
Research Opportunities
Significant attention is given to research within the program, with ongoing projects addressing a spectrum of rehabilitation topics from engineering innovations to psychobiological interventions. From collaborative efforts within various departments to the Kessler Foundation Research Center, residents are encouraged to engage in meaningful research pursuits 3.
Competitive Application Process
The residency program is highly competitive, attracting numerous applicants, particularly International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program will consider IMGs favorably; however, candidates must be mindful of the specific requirements, such as the necessity for a J-1 visa obtained through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). While there are no minimum USMLE scores set, applicants should aim for strong performance on their first attempts 4.
Supporting Documentation Required
To apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), candidates must provide the following:
- Three letters of recommendation
- Current CV detailing any gaps in training
- Medical school transcripts and MSPE
- USMLE/COMLEX transcripts
- ECFMG certificate, if applicable
Benefits and Salary
The program offers an attractive benefits package including comprehensive health insurance, an annual book allowance, and reimbursement for conference attendance 5. Each resident is entitled to paid vacation, family leave, and a generous sick leave policy.
Life in Newark
Living in Newark provides residents with a vibrant community enriched by various activities and cultural experiences. Proximity to New York City allows for a wide array of entertainment and dining options, while local resources are readily available for those seeking activities and housing 6.
Fellowship Opportunities
The residency program is designed to prepare graduates for the highly competitive fields of fellowship in various subspecialties such as Spinal Cord Injury, Pediatric Rehabilitation, and more. Graduates routinely secure positions in prestigious fellowship programs across the nation 7.
Website
Director
Katherine S Bentley, MDProgram Director Appointed Since March 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$87,271First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Newark, NJ
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Newark, NJ
Newark, NJ is a city rich in history and culture. Here are some aspects to consider about living in Newark:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Newark has a reputation for having a higher crime rate compared to other cities. While efforts have been made to improve safety, it's important to be vigilant.
- Fun Activities: Newark offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city is home to the Newark Museum, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and Prudential Center.
- Climate: Newark experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Newark is a diverse city, with a population that includes a mix of African American, Hispanic, and Caucasian residents.
- Education: Newark is home to several universities and colleges, including Rutgers University and New Jersey Institute of Technology.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Newark is relatively high compared to national averages, especially in terms of housing costs.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Newark is approximately 9 miles from New York City, which can be reached in about 30-40 minutes by car (depending on traffic). New York City offers additional opportunities for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Cultural diversity, proximity to New York City, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate, higher cost of living.
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