SUNY Upstate Medical University Program

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) Residency at SUNY Upstate Medical University is designed to provide a robust training program in physiatry, with the goal of preparing residents for future careers and fellowships in the field. The program's core mission focuses on delivering competent, culturally sensitive care to special populations while advocating for inclusive healthcare and advancing PMR-related research.

Program Structure

This PMR Residency is structured as a categorical program over four years, beginning with a preliminary year in Internal Medicine. From PGY-2 to PGY-4, residents will immerse themselves in various aspects of PMR practice. The residency is built around diverse clinical experiences, allowing residents to gain expertise in multiple subspecialties, including Pediatric Rehabilitation, Pain Management, Spinal Cord Injury, Musculoskeletal Outpatient care, and Prosthetics and Orthotics.1

Training Sites

The residency takes place at Upstate University Hospital, the only Level 1 trauma center in Central New York, which provides a comprehensive array of services, including a Children's Hospital and a collaboration with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). The program offers exposure to diverse clinical environments through rotations in inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient clinics, and specialized rehabilitation environments such as skilled nursing facilities. This multifaceted approach enhances the residents' clinical skills while addressing a wide spectrum of rehabilitation cases.1

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum features rotations designed to progress residents through increasing responsibilities and knowledge in PMR. Rotations typically change every 1 to 2 months, with opportunities for up to five elective months. Areas available for electives include Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Pain Medicine, Rheumatology, Neurology, and even international electives, depending on scheduling. A rigorous didactic program comprises four hours of educational sessions each week, supplemented by weekly journal clubs and hands-on workshops.1

In-Service Training

Residents participate in regular in-service examinations from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) and the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM), with past scores reflecting greater performance than the national average.11

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on research, with residents encouraged to engage in quality improvement projects and clinical research, supported by faculty mentors and a dedicated research team. Scholars interested in focusing on research can allocate elective time to develop proposals and participate in multidisciplinary projects, and they also have the chance to lead medical student education initiatives.12

Elective and Fellowship Opportunities

Residents have unique access to prestigious fellowship opportunities, such as the Pain Management Fellowship at Emory University and specialized fellowships in Pediatric Rehabilitation. The department also offers a highly competitive Spinal Cord Injury Medicine fellowship with two positions per year, which enriches the residents’ learning experience during training.10

Eligibility and Competitiveness

The PMR residency program is known for its competitive nature. It actively seeks out candidates who demonstrate excellence in their academic and clinical undertakings. The program is friendly towards both DO and international medical graduates, enhancing its diversity and welcoming various medical backgrounds.1

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates, facilitating entry into the United States for trainees. Depending on individual circumstances, the program may support various visa types.1

Resident Life

Residents enjoy a balanced life during their training. The residency provides an annual salary structure that ranges from $56,263 for PGY-1 up to $65,905 for PGY-4, alongside generous vacation and compensated leave, including maternity leave.11

Living in Syracuse

Syracuse and Central New York offer a welcoming community with a low cost of living and ample recreational opportunities year-round. Residents can enjoy a vibrant local culture, outdoor activities, and access to various amenities that complement a balanced training experience within PMR.16