University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria Program

The Neurology Residency Program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria offers a comprehensive ACGME-accredited four-year training program. The primary aim of this program is to deliver high-quality clinical training in both inpatient and outpatient settings, focusing on general neurology and its various subspecialties. This residency is designed to ensure residents gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of neurology.

Clinical Training

The clinical training aspect of the program is robust. Early in residency, there is a boot camp designed to prepare residents for neurologic emergencies. This preparation uses both synchronous and asynchronous teaching methods along with simulation to ensure that residents are ready for hands-on patient care. In the outpatient setting, residents have the opportunity to encounter a diverse range of general neurologic and subspecialty conditions through continuity clinics and elective rotations 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a crucial part of the training experience, as faculty members are involved in various investigator-initiated studies, clinical trials, and quality improvement projects. Residents are encouraged to participate actively in research activities and contribute to the knowledge base in neurology through community outreach and patient care symposiums 1.

Training Sites

The primary clinical training site is OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, which stands as the fifth-largest medical center in Illinois. It is affiliated with 12 residency programs and houses one of the most comprehensive neuroscience centers in the Midwest. With approximately 4,300 neurology admissions annually, it provides extensive hands-on experience in a high-volume environment 1.

Application Requirements

The program accepts graduates from U.S., osteopathic medical schools, and foreign medical graduates. Key application components include a medical school transcript, a dean's letter, a personal statement, and USMLE or COMLEX transcripts. While passing Step 1/COMLEX Level 1 is a requirement, completion of Steps 2, 2CS, and COMLEX 2, 2CS is essential before rank day. Furthermore, three letters of recommendation are needed, preferably including one from a neurologist. Importantly, applicants must have graduated from medical school after 2019 and demonstrate a minimum of one month of hands-on clinical experience in the U.S. to qualify for an interview 1.

Visa Assistance

The residency program offers H1-B and J1 visa sponsorship. For H1-B visa applicants, all USMLE scores must be available by match day. J1 visa candidates must have their ECFMG certification completed prior to rank day to be eligible. This supports international medical graduates in pursuing advanced training in neurology at this institution 1.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is structured across four years. The first-year (PGY-1) involves rotations in internal medicine, neurology (including inpatient and neuroanatomy blocks), emergency medicine, and medical ICU, alongside elective rotations. The second year (PGY-2) includes neurology-focused blocks such as epilepsy, stroke service, and general neurology. Subsequent years (PGY-3 and PGY-4) emphasize both subspecialty electives and critical neurology competencies relevant to practice. The comprehensive training model equipped residents with a strong foundation in neurology and prepares them for future practice or fellowship opportunities 1.2.

Residents' Education and Conferences

Residents participate in a well-structured conference schedule that includes daily teaching rounds, monthly reviews of key neurology articles, and lectures on varied clinical topics. These educational offerings are designed to enhance clinical knowledge and prepare residents for board examinations. Notably, residents are encouraged to present at grand rounds annually, fostering professional development and engagement within the department 2.

Wellness Initiatives

The well-being of residents is a major focus, with initiatives including wellness retreats, counseling resources, and an annual wellness officer appointed from the resident cohort. Activities such as escape rooms and outdoor a community foster camaraderie while providing essential downtime amidst a rigorous training schedule 2.

Simulation and Virtual Reality Training

The program has integrated simulation and virtual reality components to enhance resident training in neurological procedures, such as stroke management and family meetings regarding brain death determination. These methods promote the development of both technical skills and interpersonal communication, crucial in neurology 2.

Alumni Success

Graduates from the residency program have moved on to prestigious fellowships and various roles in clinical practice, further emphasizing the program's strong reputation and effectiveness in preparing residents for their careers in neurology. The diversity of fellowship placements showcases the breadth and quality of training provided during the residency years 2.

This residency program offers a compelling environment for medical graduates to advance their careers in neurology and contribute to the field's evolving landscape.