University at Buffalo Program

The Emergency Medicine Residency Program at the University at Buffalo is designed to cultivate skilled emergency physicians through progressive, hands-on training in a diverse and dynamic environment. The program's primary objective is to prepare residents for the clinical practice of emergency medicine, enable them to manage emergencies in varied settings, and equip them with the necessary skills to pursue academic careers in this specialty.

Spanning three years, the program integrates both experiential and didactic learning. Residents undergo rigorous clinical training while being constantly supervised by faculty members who are committed to education. They benefit from graded responsibilities as they advance, fostering the development of clinical judgment and technical skills essential for emergency medicine practice 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is comprehensive and provides an extensive overview of emergency medicine. It comprises core rotations in several emergency departments, extensive exposure to various patient conditions, and an array of specialty rotations including pediatrics, toxicology, and intensive care. Residents rotate through several facilities including Buffalo General Medical Center (BGMC), Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), and the VA Medical Center, among others 19.

Didactic Training

Didactic training forms a pivotal part of the residency. Weekly grand rounds occur every Wednesday, complemented by various structured lectures throughout the week. The core curriculum is designed to cover essential topics in two cycles within the three-year training period. Special teaching sessions enable hands-on experiences related to emergency procedures, such as advanced resuscitation techniques using simulation models 13.

Simulation training is a significant component, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies to mimic real-life scenarios. Residents practice critical procedures in a controlled environment, gaining insights into the management of acute medical situations 30.

Clinical Rotations

During their training, residents dedicate substantial time to hands-on clinical practice. The first and second years include rotations in various specialty services that enhance their emergency medicine training. In addition to traditional rotations, this has included experiences with the Specialized Medical Assistance Response Team (SMART) which responds to specific out-of-hospital emergencies 20.

Research and Academic Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in academic activities, including scholarly projects and research. One of the highlights is the Emergency Medicine Summer Research Program, which facilitates collaboration with attending physicians for impactful research initiatives 21.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program has a strong commitment to research, providing residents with opportunities to participate in ongoing projects that contribute to the field of emergency medicine. There are specific tracks available, such as the Public Health scholarly track, allowing residents to gain further expertise in public health issues relevant to emergency care 35.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program offers J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. H-1 visa applications are not supported. An important note for applicants is that there is no minimum score requirement for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), though a minimum of one year of training in a U.S. accredited residency program is required for international graduates 14.

Application materials include at least two letters of recommendation, preferably from emergency medicine physicians, a copy of medical school transcripts, a dean's letter, board scores, a curriculum vitae, and a personal statement. The program does not have a strict cut-off for failed STEP exams but prefers candidates with a reasonable pass history 32.

Competitiveness and Diversity Commitment

The residency program at the University at Buffalo is regarded as competitive, welcoming applications from diverse backgrounds, including those from DO and IMG candidates. A strong emphasis is placed on creating an inclusive training environment that values diversity and fosters a sense of community 10.

Resident Life and Support

Living in Buffalo offers residents a rich cultural experience combined with an affordable cost of living, making it a favorable location for medical training. The program is responsive to residents' well-being, providing a supportive atmosphere where work-life balance is respected 33.