University of Tennessee College of Medicine-Chattanooga Program

The Emergency Medicine Residency at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine - Chattanooga combines a vibrant academic setting with extensive clinical and research training to equip residents for successful careers in emergency medicine. This three-year residency program is the first Emergency Medicine (EM) residency within the University of Tennessee system, and it prepares residents to deliver quality care while also allowing them the flexibility to pursue their individual career objectives.

Program Facilities

The residency program is uniquely situated in the Erlanger Health System, an urban community and academic medical center. Erlanger, which operates multiple locations in Tennessee and western North Carolina, is one of the largest health systems in the country. With over 90,000 adult and pediatric patients treated annually, it serves as the region's only Level I trauma center within a 120-mile radius and is recognized as one of the largest stroke centers in the nation. This provides a diverse patient population and a wealth of clinical experiences for residents 1.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum emphasizes both clinical and didactic training over the three-year program, which includes various rotations designed to cultivate practical emergency medicine skills. During the PGY-1 year, residents focus on building a strong foundation in emergency care through rotations in Adult EM, ICU, Anesthesia, and Pediatric EM, among others. As residents progress into the PGY-2 and PGY-3 years, they enhance their clinical skills, partake in research activities, and develop administrative capabilities 3. The curriculum features:

• PGY-1: Adult Emergency Medicine (7 months), Adult ICU (2 months), Anesthesia/Ultrasound/EKG, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Trauma Surgery.
• PGY-2: Combined Adult and Pediatric EM (9 months), iDEPT (EMS, Neurology/Stroke, Ophthalmology), Orthopedics, Pediatric ICU, Research.
• PGY-3: Administration, Elective EM shifts, Trauma ICU.

Didactic training occurs monthly with topics shifting focus each month (e.g., Trauma in August, Neurology in December) 3.

Fellowship Opportunities

In addition to the residency program, the University offers ACGME-accredited fellowships in Emergency Medical Services and Advanced Emergency Medicine Ultrasonography. The Emergency Medical Services Fellowship, a one-year program, encompasses comprehensive pre-hospital medicine experiences, didactic sessions, and mentorship opportunities. Fellows engage in active practice within the Erlanger Emergency Department while developing leadership and management skills 5.

Research and Scholarly Activity

The residency promotes a research-oriented mindset, emphasizing efforts to engage in meaningful scholarly work. Faculty and residents are involved in diverse research projects ranging from outcomes in sepsis treatment to improving educational methodologies for healthcare providers. Various ongoing research topics include addiction medicine, disparities in EMS care delivery, and the development of free open-access educational materials 6.

Application Process

Applicants for the residency program may hold MD or DO degrees, and must have graduated from an LCME- or AOA-accredited medical school. The program only considers graduates from international medical schools with equivalent standards. Applications are handled through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and interview opportunities are extended to the most qualified candidates on a rolling basis. Ideal candidates should comply with any specific tenure requirements set forth by the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners 2.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program provides visa support and can sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in participating in the residency program. The selection process for the residency is competitive; however, the program fosters inclusivity and considers both US and international graduates competitively, aligning with various backgrounds and experiences 2.

Unique Program Aspects

Chattanooga is not only recognized for its medical training but also for its vibrant lifestyle which encourages outdoor activities. The area offers opportunities for adventure such as rock climbing, rafting, and wilderness medicine, which enrich the training experience. The program supports interests in wilderness medicine through specialized training and involvement in local rescue teams, such as Chattanooga Hamilton County Rescue 4.

This comprehensive approach to training in emergency medicine ensures that residents emerge with the skills, experience, and professional ethos to excel in any clinical environment they choose to work in.