University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (USC/LA General) Program

The USC/Los Angeles General Medical Center Neurology Residency Program offers an extensive and premier training experience, situated within one of the most culturally and clinically diverse healthcare settings in the United States. The residency program is integrated across two key hospitals: Los Angeles General Medical Center, recognized as the largest safety net hospital in Los Angeles, and Keck Hospital of USC, which functions as a tertiary and quaternary referral center for complex cases. This unique structure provides residents with an extraordinary array of clinical exposure and educational opportunities within a collaborative environment.

The program is specifically designed to shape skilled neurologists who are capable of addressing the diverse needs of patients with neurological conditions. As such, the residency is committed to providing not just clinical training but also a profound understanding of the healthcare disparities affecting underserved populations.

Training Structure and Curriculum

The neurology residency is a fully integrated four-year program that commences in the first post-graduate year (PGY1). Each year, residents accumulate significant exposure across a variety of rotations, reaching beyond typical neurology training. The PGY1 phase includes rotations in Internal Medicine and specialties such as neuro-ophthalmology and neuro-palliative care, alongside initial neurology services at both Los Angeles General and Keck Hospitals.

As residents progress to the PGY2 to PGY4 years, the curriculum is built upon the X+Y model. This model includes:

• PGY1: 2 months Elective, 1 month Outpatient (Internal Medicine and Neurology), 4 months Internal Medicine, 2 months MICU, 1 month Emergency Medicine, 1 month Selective.
• PGY2: 3 months Elective, 1 month EEG/EMG, 3 months Stroke service, 3 months General Neurology service, 2 months Keck, 1 month Rancho Los Amigos.
• PGY3: 3 months Elective, 1 month EEG/EMG, 1 month Senior General Neurology service, 1 month Night Float, 3 months Keck, 2 months Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
• PGY4: 4 months Elective, 2 months Senior Stroke service, 1 month Night Float, 1 month Pediatric Neurology, 1 month Psychiatry.

This robust curriculum is developed with ongoing resident feedback and is routinely evaluated to enhance educational value.

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

The program utilizes a variety of renowned clinical sites for training:

• Keck Hospital of USC: A major tertiary center that provides extensive care for complex neurology patients.
• Los Angeles General Medical Center: Features a unique safety-net service for medically underserved populations and complex cases.
• Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA): For specialized pediatric neurology training.
• Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center: Offers experiences in rehabilitation and various interdisciplinary approaches to neurological recovery.

Educational Opportunities and Didactics

Residents engage in an extensive range of educational opportunities that further enrich their training. Regular didactic sessions include:

• Weekly Grand Rounds and specialty conferences.
• Monthly morbidity and mortality conferences.
• Journal clubs and interactive workshops across numerous neurology subspecialties.

This focus on education not only increases knowledge but enhances the practical skills needed for a successful career in neurology.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Residents are encouraged to participate in clinical and translational research throughout their training. The program facilitates opportunities to engage in impactful research initiatives with the goal of progressing neurology as a field. Residents can expect to present research findings at national meetings, fostering both professional development and networking prospects.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The USC/LA General Medical Center program is recognized as highly competitive, welcoming applications from both MD and DO graduates, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs), particularly those on J1 visas. Candidates must possess a strong academic record, including USMLE scores, and demonstrate clinical experience in neurology.

The application process requires submission through the ERAS platform, including USMLE transcripts, medical school transcripts, a personal statement, and at least three letters of recommendation. Applicants should carefully review individual requirements and guidelines to ensure a comprehensive submission.

Benefits and Resident Life

The program provides a supportive framework for residents, who enjoy numerous benefits, including:

• A generous salary structure and a $10,000 annual housing stipend.
• Free parking and meal allowances at training sites.
• AAN membership and educational funding.
• Access to wellness programs, call rooms, and lactation facilities.

Residents are part of a vibrant community that hosts social events to foster connections and collaboration among medical staff, contributing to a healthy work-life balance.

Post-Residency Opportunities

Upon graduation, residents are equipped to pursue a range of fellowship opportunities across various subspecialties within neurology. The program maintains strong connections with various fellowship programs, creating a network that supports continued career development in neurology and its many facets.