University of Miami/Jackson Health System Program

The Neurology Residency Program at the University of Miami/Jackson Health System offers comprehensive training designed to prepare residents for a successful career in neurology, integrating clinical care, neuroscience research, and medical education. With a commitment to excellence, the program includes 45 residency positions and 25 fellowship positions, making it one of the largest training programs in the United States.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum encompasses a range of experiences and rotations, with a structured approach throughout the residency years. Residents participate in a variety of clinical settings, gaining exposure to different neurological disorders and treatments.

Core Curriculum

The first year (PGY-1) focuses on preliminary medicine and general neurology. This includes 22-24 weeks in inpatient general medicine, emergency medicine, neurocritical care, and comprehensive outpatient experiences. The PGY-2 year emphasizes a wide array of neurological conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings, featuring rotations in stroke, epilepsy, and neurocritical care among others. The PGY-3 and PGY-4 years build upon this foundation, granting residents increasing responsibility and supervisory roles, particularly in consultation services at major hospitals, where they lead teams and engage in complex case management.

Training Sites

The residency program rotates through several prominent medical facilities affiliated with the University of Miami:

• Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH): A Level 1 trauma center and Comprehensive Stroke Center, JMH serves as the primary teaching hospital with over 1,500 beds and a diverse patient population.
• Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC): Located conveniently across from JMH, it provides extensive outpatient and inpatient experiences alongside neurology-specific services.
• UHealth Tower (UHT): This 560-bed facility is integrated with UHealth, offering residents exposure to unique clinical cases in a community hospital setting.
• Desai Sethi Medical Center: This outpatient center features a range of neurology clinics, significantly enhancing residents' continuity of care experience.

Research Opportunities

The program advocates for research engagement among residents. With strong backing for both basic and clinical research initiatives, residents can participate in various projects related to cerebrovascular disease, neuroimmunology, and more. The program supports research endeavors through educational grants and a dedicated Resident Clinician Research Program, allowing those with interests in academic neurology to further their research careers.

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants have two pathways available: a 4-year Categorical track and a 3-year Advanced track. All candidates must submit an ERAS application, including personal statements, medical school transcripts, USMLE scores, and letters of recommendation. The program is known for its competitiveness, receiving approximately 1,000 applications annually and selecting around 100 for interviews. While the program predominantly welcomes US medical graduates, it also considers international medical graduates, providing J1 visa sponsorships to accepted candidates.

Wellness Initiatives

Recognizing the importance of personal well-being in medical training, the program emphasizes wellness through various supportive initiatives such as wellness retreats, social events, and access to psychological counseling. These endeavors foster a balanced environment for both residents and faculty, promoting resilience and satisfaction throughout the residency experience.

Unique Aspects and Strengths

The program prides itself on the breadth of clinical experiences it provides, offering exposure to a diverse range of neurological disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Residents benefit from mentorship opportunities that facilitate scholarly work and individualized education plans through flexible elective rotations. The multicultural atmosphere of South Florida adds a unique dimension to the residency experience, enabling residents to thrive academically and personally.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship exclusively for J1 visas, making it accessible for international medical graduates who aspire to enhance their training and clinical skills in the US. This aspect serves as an essential support for applicants from diverse backgrounds, reinforcing the program's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.