SUNY Upstate Medical University Program

The SUNY Upstate Medical University Emergency Medicine Residency Program, located in Syracuse, NY, offers a comprehensive learning environment in both academic and community settings. Established in 1991, this program provides training designed to promote excellence in patient care, education, and research within the field of emergency medicine. With an accreditation by the Residency Review Committee (RRC) since its inception, the program now graduates eleven residents per year, showing significant growth from its first class of six residents in 1995.

The curriculum is dynamic, with annual enhancements that include community medicine, bi-annual retreats, evidence-based medicine expansion, and simulation training at the EM-STAT Center, highlighting the program's commitment to providing an evolving and thorough education. Additionally, the program offers unique educational experiences such as physician staffing at mass gathering events, participation in national and state emergency medicine conferences, and opportunities for international electives.

Residents in this program gain experience across a wide variety of clinical settings, thanks to multiple education facilities in Syracuse that cater to a diverse patient population. These sites prepare residents for future practice in any clinical environment, from large academic centers to small community EDs. Research is also a key component, with the department actively participating in national studies and encouraging residents to engage in research projects.

The application process for the Emergency Medicine Residency Program is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with a deadline of October 21st for submissions. Interview invitations are based on a comprehensive review of the applicant's file, including medical school transcripts, Dean's letter, board scores (USMLE Step 1/COMLEX 1 at the time of application submission with Step 2/COMLEX 2 passed by residency start), and letters of recommendation. For international medical graduates, a current ECFMG certificate, US citizenship, permanent residency (Green Card), or J-1 visas are required. Also, US clinical experience is necessary for consideration.

Residency life in Syracuse is described as engaging and versatile, catering to various interests outside the hospital from seasonal outdoor activities to cultural experiences. The community and the program offer a supportive environment, adding value to the residents' overall experience.

This program does not explicitly state its competitiveness, whether it is DO/IMG-friendly, or directly mention support for visas beyond J-1; however, it does specify requirements for international medical graduates which include having a current ECFMG certificate and either US citizenship, permanent residency, or J-1 visas.