University of Maryland Program

Program Overview

The University of Maryland Emergency Medicine (UMEM) Residency Program has been a leader in training emergency physicians since its inception in 1991. This program offers a traditional 3-year categorical Emergency Medicine program alongside two combined programs; a 5-year Emergency Medicine/Internal Medicine Program and a 5-year Emergency Medicine/Pediatrics Program. Unique to this program, it is the only medical center in the United States to host all three residency types, including the option for an extended 6th year for critical care training.

All residents participate in a rigorous training experience designed to prepare them for various medical environments while emphasizing a supportive and engaging atmosphere.

Curriculum

The UMEM curriculum encompasses comprehensive educational experiences that include both didactic and hands-on learning. Weekly conferences feature interactive lectures, simulation exercises, and small group discussions led by nationally respected educators. The curriculum extends beyond core emergency medicine topics to integrate business, administration, and wellness.

Residents benefit from diverse rotations covering high-acuity urban care at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and community emergency departments. Additional specialized rotations include dedicated experience in pediatric emergency medicine, toxicology, and ultrasonography, alongside elective and ICU training.

Training Sites

UMEM's clinical rotations take place across multiple prestigious facilities, including:

• University of Maryland Medical Center ED
• R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center
• Baltimore VA Medical Center
• Mercy Medical Center
• Johns Hopkins Pediatric ED
• University of Maryland Midtown ED
• Baltimore Washington Medical Center

These training sites create an expansive learning environment characterized by a diverse patient population, ranging from highly specialized referral centers to community emergency settings. Graduates emerge equipped to thrive in various clinical atmospheres.

Research Opportunities

The program fosters a dynamic research environment, encouraging residents to engage in both collaborative and independent research projects. Alumni have gone on to pursue academic roles, clinical research careers, and various fellowships in emergency medicine-related fields.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

UMEM is firmly committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive environment, encouraging diversity among residents and faculty. Initiatives focus on improving health care inequities and enhancing community engagement. Educational sessions within the residency cover topics related to health disparities and social determinants of health.

Fellowship Training

The program supports fellows in several clinical focus areas. Fellowships offered include Advanced Emergency Medicine Ultrasound, Health Policy, Faculty Development, Research, Emergency Cardiovascular Medicine, and Critical Care. These opportunities provide residents with invaluable experiences that can shape their future careers.

Salary and Benefits

Residents are compensated on a biweekly schedule, with salaries structured according to postgraduate year:

• PGY 1: $63,009
• PGY 2: $66,092
• PGY 3: $69,136
• PGY 4: $71,979
• PGY 5: $74,786
• PGY 6: $77,276

Additionally, comprehensive benefits, professional liability insurance, and educational materials are provided to residents, as well as opportunities to attend national conferences.

Application Requirements and Process

The UMEM Residency Program welcomes applications from all qualified medical school graduates, including those from international medical schools. However, applicants must meet specific requirements including being certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) for international graduates. The program supports J1 visa sponsorship but prefers applicants with prior U.S. clinical experience.

Application components include:

• ERAS Common Application
• USMLE Transcript or COMLEX Transcript
• Personal Statement
• Medical School Transcript and MSPE
• Letters of Evaluation

The program employs a holistic review process while aiming to minimize bias by masking identifying information in applications.

Competitiveness

The UMEM Residency Program is recognized for its competitive nature. Applicants should be aware of the strong interest in the program, especially from U.S. allopathic medical graduates. However, the program values diverse backgrounds and experiences, making it a suitable environment for both DO and IMG applicants who have met the qualifications.

Conclusion

UMEM offers a unique and multifaceted residency experience that combines rigorous training, research opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. With strong community ties and a diverse range of training sites, this residency program prepares emergency medicine physicians to excel in various practice environments.