University of Washington Program

The University of Washington's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency program is dedicated to training the next generation of proficient physiatrists, offering a comprehensive curriculum and robust clinical experience in a supportive environment. The program is characterized by a diverse faculty and a collaborative approach to rehabilitation medicine. Residents undergo extensive training across different sites, gaining exposure to a wide range of cases, which prepares them for successful careers in various realms of physical medicine.

Program Overview

The PM&R residency at the University of Washington includes 30 overall positions. Each year, the program accepts residents at both the PGY-1 and PGY-2 levels, with three PGY-1 and 27 PGY-2 to PGY-4 positions available. The residency ensures comprehensive exposure, averaging 13 months of inpatient time, 7 months of consultative care, and training in outpatient settings with a variety of diagnoses. Rotations include internal medicine, emergency medicine, pain management, orthopedics, geriatrics, and more, with specific blocks for musculoskeletal/sports medicine and electromyography (EMG) as well. Residents are responsible for call duties from home, averaging four to six weeks per year, structured to foster autonomy while supervising their professional growth. The program aligns with the standards of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), fully accredited, and produces graduates recognized nationally in academia and clinical practice.1

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to cultivate a physician well-versed in rehabilitation medicine, ensuring residents are well prepared to tackle clinical and research challenges. Over the course of residency, residents participate in regularly scheduled seminars that cover a breadth of topics crucial to rehabilitation. Instruction in basic sciences is integrated into clinical rotation schedules, beginning in the PGY-2 year. The curriculum encompasses key subjects such as amputee rehabilitation, electrodiagnosis, musculoskeletal medicine, and healthcare disparities among others.1

Training Sites

Residents train at four core sites: Harborview Medical Center (HMC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, University of Washington Medical Center, and Seattle Children's Hospital. Harborview provides the only Level I adult and pediatric trauma center in Washington, while the VA system focuses on veteran healthcare needs. The University of Washington Medical Center ranks highly nationally and Seattle Children's Hospital is renowned for its pediatric specialty care, offering residents a wide-ranging experience.1

Diversity and Inclusion

The program emphasizes a commitment to diversity and health equity. The Rehabilitation Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) Committee actively encourages the recruitment of residents from various backgrounds and experiences to enrich the training environment. Meaningful discussions surrounding equity and inclusion are promoted, ensuring that all residents are prepared to confront systemic inequities in healthcare.6

Research Opportunities

Residents engaging in research have access to rich opportunities within the department’s numerous programs focusing on rehabilitation. The program is affiliated with model systems for burns and traumatic brain injuries, enhancing its emphasis on innovation and excellence in care. Faculty members encourage scholarly activity, with backing available for residents presenting at national meetings.1

Visa Support

The program extends visa sponsorship to international medical graduates, providing opportunities for those on ECFMG certification track. Applicants must be on track for ECFMG certification and possess a visa that permits work and training.3

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The residency is highly competitive, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds including allopathic and osteopathic medical schools as well as international medical graduates. Important application requirements include passing USMLE Steps 1 and 2 and clinical skills, or their COMLEX equivalents, prior to matriculating into the residency. Applicants are evaluated based on clinical performance, leadership experience, and personal growth narratives, particularly emphasizing resilience and personal stories.2

Stipends and Benefits

The residency program offers competitive stipends and benefits as negotiated under the University of Washington Housestaff Association contract. This includes financial support for attending national conventions and other professional development opportunities. Residents also receive access to university resources including library services and recreational facilities, enriching their residency experience.1

Resident Life and Community

Life in the UW PM&R residency is characterized by a strong sense of community, with interactions among residents and faculty underscored by support and camaraderie. Residents engage in various committees addressing wellness, quality improvement, and community service initiatives that enhance their educational and professional experience. Seattle, known for its natural beauty, offers a vibrant array of recreational and cultural activities, allowing residents to maintain a healthy work-life balance.8