UTMB Sealy Department of Emergency Medicine Residency Program provides a comprehensive and challenging educational environment for aspiring emergency medicine physicians. The program's mission focuses on improving health outcomes through innovative education and training, cutting-edge research, and delivering high-quality patient care. It aims to cultivate highly skilled emergency physicians capable of addressing a wide range of medical needs and emergencies.
The Emergency Medicine (EM) residency program at UTMB supports five residents per year across a three-year training period. Residents will also have the opportunity to engage in combined training through the Emergency Medicine/Aerospace Medicine residency program, which spans four years and qualifies graduates for board certification in both fields. This distinctive combined program is particularly beneficial for those interested in the intersection of emergency care and aerospace medicine, preparing them for unique roles in diverse environments, including NASA facilities and commercial space companies 1.
Curriculum
The structure of the residency includes comprehensive clinical rotations spanning various settings. Each year of the program involves a mixture of Emergency Medicine rotations and other essential specialties to ensure a well-rounded training. For instance, the PGY-1 year includes rotations in adult emergency medicine, pediatric emergency medicine, trauma/surgery, anesthesiology, and more. The PGY-2 and PGY-3 years continue this trend with increasing responsibility and opportunities for elective rotations in specialized fields such as aerospace medicine, toxicology, and ultrasound 3.
Training Sites
Training occurs in multiple locations, providing exposure to diverse patient populations and case types. Key sites include the main hospital in Galveston, which serves as a Level 1 trauma center, as well as suburban emergency departments in League City and Clear Lake. These varied experiences ensure residents are equipped to handle significant medical challenges and emergencies 2.
Research Opportunities
UTMB is committed to research in emergency medicine, providing residents with robust opportunities to engage in cutting-edge studies. Current research initiatives include investigating the effectiveness of different treatments for stroke, trauma mortality markers, and the application of artificial intelligence in emergency examinations. Residents are encouraged to participate in these research projects, enhancing their learning while contributing to the advancement of emergency medicine knowledge 1.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the standout features of the UTMB EM residency is its commitment to integrating advanced technologies and methodologies into the curriculum. A significant focus is placed on bedside ultrasound training, reflecting the increasing importance of this skill in emergency care. Residents will have able to utilize portable ultrasound devices as part of their routine assessments, which is a transformative approach for diagnosing conditions rapidly in emergency situations 1.
Application Process and Requirements
To apply to the residency program, candidates must meet specific requirements. They should have passed USMLE Steps 1 and 2 (or COMLEX) within three attempts and hold current ECFMG certification if they are international medical graduates. Each year, interviews are conducted with selected candidates, and the program looks for individuals who demonstrate curiosity, commitment to patient care, and a desire to embrace ongoing learning 4.
Visa Support
The program provides support for international medical graduates, including sponsorship for visa applications, such as J-1 or H-1B visas, making it inclusive for diverse applicants seeking to train in the United States.
Competitiveness
The UTMB Emergency Medicine residency program is noted as highly competitive. It seeks exceptional candidates who exemplify strong academic backgrounds, clinical experiences, and a commitment to the field of emergency medicine. Applicants are encouraged to highlight their relevant experiences and unique skills in their applications to stand out in the selection process.
Living in Galveston
Residents in Galveston enjoy a vibrant community characterized by its beach culture, historical architecture, and varying recreational activities. The city's medium-sized population allows for a blend of both community engagement and outdoor exploration, making it an attractive location for those who appreciate coastal life.
Website
Director
Dietrich Jehle, MD, RDMSEmergency Medicine Program Director, Department Chairman Appointed Since January 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
72hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
60hrsFirst Year Salary:
$61,401First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
220Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
3Match History
1714110C1
2024
5 of 52023
5 of 52022
6 of 62021
0 of 6Location
Galveston, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Galveston, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Galveston has a moderate crime rate. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, petty theft and property crime can occur.
- Fun Activities: Living in Galveston offers access to beautiful beaches, water activities, historic sites, museums, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is famous for its Victorian architecture and annual Mardi Gras celebration.
- Climate: Galveston experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The area is prone to hurricanes due to its location on the Gulf Coast.
- Races and Population: Galveston has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural atmosphere.
- Education: Galveston offers educational opportunities through schools like the University of Texas Medical Branch, providing a strong academic environment for residents and families.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Galveston is lower than in larger Texas cities like Houston. Housing is affordable, but the cost of insurance may be higher due to the city's proximity to the coast.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Galveston is located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, which can be reached by car in about an hour's drive. Houston offers a wider range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, rich history, diverse cultural scene, lower cost of living compared to some other Texas cities.
- Cons: Proximity to hurricane-prone areas, moderate crime rate, potential higher insurance costs.
Interview Questions
