University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program

The University of New Mexico School of Medicine Neurological Surgery Residency Program is a distinguished seven-year training program, fully accredited by the ACGME (Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education), which accepts one resident each year through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Since regaining accreditation in April 2022, the program has established itself as a leader in neurosurgery education, marking a significant transformation driven by new leadership and a dedicated faculty committed to enhancing resident training and patient care.

The program’s unique structure emphasizes maximum support from Advanced Practice Providers (APPs), allowing residents to focus primarily on their education and clinical training, while APPs manage many aspects of patient care. This approach has been essential in the swift recovery of accreditation within a short timeframe, demonstrating the commitment to both educational excellence and patient outcomes.

Training Sites

The major teaching hospital for the residency is the University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH), which is New Mexico's only Level I trauma center, Neurocritical Care Unit, Advanced Care Stroke Center, and a comprehensive cancer center, handling a large volume of complex neurosurgical cases. The program’s residents also gain experience at Lovelace Medical Center, a community hospital that provides unique contrasts in patient demographics and case complexity, particularly during their fifth year when they focus on spine and general neurosurgery.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency program is structured into a detailed schedule of rotations, with the first year (PGY-1) designed to develop foundational skills in managing both adult and pediatric patients with neurosurgical issues. Residents participate in a diverse range of assignments at UNMH, ensuring a solid knowledge base and clinical skill set. The subsequent years involve rotations at varying institutions including the Veteran’s Administration Medical Center and Carrie Tingley Children's Hospital, exposing residents to a wide array of surgical conditions and techniques.

In PGY-4, residents have a dedicated research year, offering them the chance to engage in significant research initiatives, with robust support from faculty and staff. This research is further emphasized by the availability of a dedicated research coordinator and assistants, facilitating collaborative efforts throughout the residency.

Research Opportunities

The UNM Department of Neurosurgery places a strong emphasis on research, offering residents numerous opportunities to engage in scholarly activities. Residents are encouraged to set ambitious research goals each month, fostering an environment that supports publication and presentation at conferences. The program has established partnerships with institutions such as Sandia National Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory, which provide advanced resources and collaboration in biomedical engineering and surgical outcomes research.

Application Process and Competitiveness

Applications for the residency program are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS®). The program is highly competitive, with a focus on attracting both MD and DO graduates, as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program does not impose stringent limitations like a maximum number of Step exam failures but does expect applicants to meet the standard expectations of academic achievement. They also welcome visiting students from other institutions through VSLO for electives and sub-internships, expanding exposure to the program.

Visa Support

The residency program is equipped to offer visa sponsorship for international applicants, typically providing support for the J-1 visa, which is common for residents in training.

Commitment to Diversity and Ethics

The mission of the UNM Neurological Surgery residency is rooted in providing high-quality neurosurgical care to all New Mexicans, with special attention to diverse populations, including partnerships with IHS for Native American patient care. The residency focuses on cultivating ethical standards, professionalism, and a commitment to serving the public health needs of the community. This ethos of respect and integrity underscores all aspects of the program, from patient care to educational interactions.

Resident Support and Well-Being

The program strictly adheres to the 80-hour work week regulations, ensuring that residents can balance their demanding roles with personal well-being. This commitment to work-life balance is supported by the well-structured presence of APPs, allowing residents to maintain a focus on educational goals without the undue stress of excessive clinical duties.