University of Alabama Hospital (Birmingham) Program

The UAB Child Neurology Residency Program is a five-year ACGME-accredited categorical program designed to train skilled, patient-centered child neurologists. The program's structure is rooted in supervised clinical work, allowing residents to progressively take on responsibilities for both inpatient and outpatient care.

Applications for this residency program are exclusively accepted through ERAS, with no separate application necessary for the UAB Pediatric Residency. Each year, the program offers two categorical resident positions, and most residents complete two years of general pediatrics training before commencing in child neurology.

Curriculum Overview

The training curriculum begins with two years in general pediatrics at UAB/Children’s of Alabama, followed by one year of adult neurology and two years focused on child neurology. During the PGY-3 year, residents complete nine months of adult neurology training and three months dedicated to child neurology, including a weekly pediatric neurology continuity clinic.

As they progress into the PGY-4 and PGY-5 years, residents engage in extensive child neurology training across various settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and elective rotations. This robust structure allows residents to tailor their experiences to align with their future career goals, including opportunities to prepare for board certification.

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

Residents rotate through several premier facilities, including:

• Children's of Alabama: The only free-standing pediatric hospital in Alabama, known for its high volume of inpatient admissions and outpatient visits.
• UAB Hospital: The central hub of the UAB Health System, providing a comprehensive range of primary and specialty care services.
• Birmingham VA Medical Center: A major training site for adult neurology, enhancing residents' exposure to diverse patient populations.
• Kirklin Clinic: An outpatient care center that supports adult neurology training and subspecialty clinics.
• Veterans Administration Hospital: An acute care facility owned by the UAB Health System, catering primarily to veterans.

Each of these sites is located within walking distance of each other, facilitating easy access and collaboration among residents and faculty.

Research and Educational Opportunities

Research and quality improvement activities play a vital role in the residency experience, with many residents participating in scholarly activities that complement their clinical training. Educational sessions including conferences, journal clubs, grand rounds, and specialized seminars are integrated into the curriculum. The program also encourages residents to present cases and engage with faculty during various didactic conferences.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The UAB Child Neurology Residency is regarded as competitive, with applicants expected to possess relevant qualifications and experiences. The program engages with various backgrounds, including both MD and DO graduates. International medical graduates (IMGs) are welcome to apply, provided they meet state and federal licensing requirements, including the completion of USMLE Steps 1 to 3 within seven years of the first attempt.

Moreover, the program sponsors J-1 visas for eligible applicants, which makes it accessible for international candidates pursuing training in the United States.

Call and Work-Life Balance

Residents participate in a structured call schedule that is designed to balance educational needs with personal wellness. The program utilizes a night float system during weekdays and provides backup support while allowing residents to benefit from a collaborative team-based approach to patient care.

Well-being and Community

Recognizing that a well-rounded residency experience hinges on both academic and personal well-being, the program fosters a supportive community among residents and faculty. This collegial environment emphasizes mentorship and the importance of work-life balance, aiming to prepare graduates for successful careers in child neurology.