University of Washington Program
Specialty:
Brain injury medicine (Physical medicine and rehabilitation)ACGME Code:
3475434001The University of Washington's Brain Injury Medicine Fellowship, part of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Residency Program, offers comprehensive training focused on managing patients with brain injuries. This program cultivates future leaders in the field through a robust curriculum and diverse training environments that integrate clinical practice with research opportunities.
Program Overview
The program is designed to prepare physiatrists for a rewarding career in rehabilitation medicine, with a specific emphasis on brain injury management. Residents experience an extensive variety of clinical rotations that allow them to develop their skills across multiple specialties such as neurosurgery, neurology, and orthopedics. The fellowship encourages collaborative learning from a faculty comprising respected leaders in rehabilitation medicine, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the training.
Curriculum
The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to ensure that residents receive a well-rounded education in rehabilitation medicine. It covers vital areas including:1
- Amputee Rehabilitation and Principles of Prosthetics
- Electrodiagnosis and Clinical Neurophysiology (EMG)
- Healthcare Disparities in Rehabilitation Medicine
- Neurorehabilitation
- Musculoskeletal Medicine and Modalities
- Orthotics and Assistive Devices
- Research Methodology & Scholarly Activity
Didactic sessions occur regularly, blending clinical training with discussions on relevant medical sciences to create a comprehensive learning experience. Residents also partake in a required scholarly activity that involves opportunities for peer review and literature publication.
Rotations and Clinical Experience
Residents gain exposure through rotations at four main training sites:2
- Harborview Medical Center: Washington's sole Level I trauma center, providing extensive experience with complex cases.
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System: Offers specialized care approaches tailored to veterans and includes a focus on quality improvement and rehabilitation care.
- University of Washington Medical Center: Known for providing high-quality healthcare services, it offers a collaborative environment among multiple specialties.
- Seattle Children's Hospital: Ranks among the best pediatric hospitals, teaching residents about unique challenges in pediatric rehabilitation.
Each resident averages 13 months of inpatient care along with a variety of outpatient experiences encompassing consultative care and hands-on management of complex cases.
Research Opportunities
The program aligns with numerous research initiatives, allowing residents to engage in academic inquiries related to brain injuries and rehabilitation. Opportunities abound for involvement in clinical trials, quality improvement projects, and the advancement of rehabilitation practices following evidence-based methodologies.
Diversity and Inclusion
With a commitment to diversity, the program actively recruits residents from various backgrounds and experiences, fostering an inclusive environment that enriches the learning experience for all. The Rehabilitation Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee ensures representation and works towards mitigating the impact of systemic inequities in healthcare.3
Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The University of Washington Program is friendly towards international medical graduates (IMGs) and is able to sponsor visas for eligible foreign graduates seeking residency positions. Typically, the program offers sponsorship for J-1 visas, which allows international graduates to train in the U.S. If you are an IMG, it’s essential that you establish ECFMG certification prior to application.4
Applicants should be aware that the selection process is competitive, with substantial interest from both U.S. medical graduates and IMGs. It's essential to have completed the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 exams or their COMLEX equivalents.5
Application Requirements
The application timeline is critical, with openings for both PGY-1 and PGY-2 levels. Applicants are generally required to submit:
- Completed ERAS application
- Personal Statement
- Medical School Transcript
- USMLE/COMLEX scores
- Letters of Recommendation, including one from a PM&R physician
Specific guidelines dictate eligibility; for instance, applicants must have completed a year of internship in a recognized U.S. program or 12 months of clinical experiences at accredited U.S. medical schools.6
Resident Life and Support Systems
Residents undergo a well-supported training journey at UW, characterized by a culture of collaboration and mutual assistance. The program emphasizes wellness and professional growth through various committees that residents can join. Activities include community service, committee work, and engagement in adaptive sports organizations, which contribute to a fulfilling residency experience.7
Stipends and Benefits
Financial compensation aligns with other residency programs and includes benefits that support the educational journey, such as funding for attending relevant conferences and seminars. Comprehensive details regarding stipends, benefits, and additional financial assistance can be found during the interview process and through program documentation.8
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Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
50 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
10 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$84,144First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
6XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Seattle, WA
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Living in Seattle, WA
- Climate: Seattle has a mild, temperate climate with relatively cool and wet winters and warm, dry summers. It's known for its frequent rainfall and overcast skies.
- Population: Seattle has a diverse population with significant Asian, Hispanic, and African American communities.
- Safety: Seattle has a moderate crime rate compared to other U.S. cities of similar size. The city is generally considered safe, but like any urban area, caution should be exercised, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Cost of Living: Seattle has a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. However, salaries in the area are generally higher to compensate.
- Education: Seattle is home to a number of prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Washington and Seattle University.
- Activities: Seattle offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and water sports. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and a wide range of dining options.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia, are relatively close to Seattle. Portland is about 2.5-3 hours away by car, while Vancouver is about 2.5-3.5 hours away depending on traffic.
- Pros: Seattle is a tech hub with a strong job market in various industries, beautiful natural surroundings, a lively food scene, and a strong sense of community.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, and frequent rainfall may be viewed as drawbacks for some individuals.