University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School Program

The Emergency Medicine Residency at Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, offers a highly dynamic and learner-centered program that is designed to foster the development of physician leaders. Established in 2012, this three-year residency program is committed to training residents who are adept not only in clinical emergency medicine but also in handling systemic health challenges. The program graduates eight residents annually, ensuring a close-knit learning environment where collaboration and teamwork are at the forefront.

One of the unique aspects of the program is its multi-hospital training model, which integrates educational experiences across various healthcare settings. This model prepares residents to provide care in diverse environments and adapt to various patient needs upon graduation. Dell Medical School emphasizes hands-on experience and maintains a favorable attending-to-resident teaching ratio, which enhances learning opportunities during emergency department rotations.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum consists of a block schedule featuring extensive exposure to emergency medicine throughout the training period. Clinical rotations take place at four main sites, offering comprehensive training that includes both adult and pediatric emergency medicine.

The curriculum also aims to develop leadership skills, focusing on areas such as:

• Public advocacy and social medicine
• Emergency department administration
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Pediatric emergency medicine

Didactic training is complemented by simulation labs, small group learning, and problem-based learning activities tailored to different training levels (PGY-1, PGY-2, PGY-3) that address foundational skills, critical care topics, and career planning strategies.

Training Facilities

The training facilities for the Emergency Medicine Residency Program are varied and designed to offer a comprehensive clinical experience:

• Dell Seton Medical Center: The primary teaching site and Central Texas’ only Level 1 trauma center, this facility serves a diverse population and has over 70,000 emergency department visits annually.
• Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin: This community hospital is renowned for its emergency medical and surgical services, alongside being the only hospital in Central Texas that performs heart transplants.
• Dell Children’s Medical Center: A tertiary center and one of only five Level 1 pediatric trauma centers in Texas, it plays a critical role in ensuring residents receive robust training in pediatric emergency medicine.
• Ascension Seton Highland Lakes: Offering rural emergency medicine exposure, this critical access hospital provides a unique experience for senior residents to practice independently.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to participate in scholarly activities to enhance their practice and make contributions to the field. There are ample opportunities for research, mentoring by experienced faculty, and involvement in departmental projects focused on improving patient care. Participating in research is an essential component of resident training, promoting a culture of inquiry and evidence-based practice.

Community Engagement

The program emphasizes service to the community, particularly for the underserved populations. Residents are involved in outreach programs, enhancing their understanding of social medicine and public health challenges faced by diverse communities in Texas.

Application Process

Applications for the Emergency Medicine Residency are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Key points regarding the application process include:

• Application deadline: October 1
• Documents required include USMLE or COMLEX transcripts, medical school transcripts, letters of recommendation (two from emergency medicine rotations), curriculum vitae, personal statement, and a photo.
• Interviews are conducted primarily from November through December.

Visa Sponsorship and Eligibility

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates and supports J-1 visas. It welcomes applications from both DO and MD graduates, making it an IMG-friendly program. However, applicants are typically expected to have graduated from medical school within a few years of their intended residency start date.

Resident Benefits

Residents in the Emergency Medicine Residency program at Dell Medical School benefit from memberships in professional organizations such as the American College of Emergency Physicians and the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine. Access to various educational resources ensures residents have the tools necessary for staying current in the fast-evolving field of emergency medicine.

In summary, the Emergency Medicine Residency at Dell Medical School offers comprehensive training through diverse clinical rotations, a strong focus on community service and advocacy, and numerous research opportunities, all within a supportive and collaborative educational environment.