The UPMC Medical Education Program in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (NDD) offers a comprehensive training pathway that integrates clinical exposure, research opportunities, and advocacy aimed at fostering the development of skilled professionals in the field. This residency program is highly regarded and combines pediatric and neurology training to meet the unique needs of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Program Overview
The NDD Program is a six-year combined pathway that synergizes with Child Neurology and Pediatrics, leading participants toward board eligibility in both Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Neurology with Special Certification in Child Neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Training begins with approximately 18 months of Child Neurology, followed by 18 months focused on Neurodevelopmental Disabilities, and concludes with 12 months dedicated to Adult Neurology, ensuring a well-rounded exposure across various stages of life and care models. This structure emphasizes a robust clinical experience, with residents taking part in various subspecialty clinics as part of their training (cited 1).
Clinical Training and Rotations
Residents in the NDD program engage in diverse rotational experiences including:
- **Child Neurology:** Involves inpatient ward service, outpatient consultations, and specific subspecialty electives.
- **Neurodevelopmental Disabilities:** Provides a dedicated research year, elective experiences, and opportunities to pursue specialized interests within neurodevelopment.
- **Adult Neurology:** Engages residents in adult inpatient care alongside outpatient experiences, culminating in competency across age groups and improving the understanding of continuity in care.
The training is also supported by a continuity clinic experience where residents take primary responsibility for managing patient care, bolstered by attending physician support (cited 1).
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the Neurodevelopmental Disabilities residency, with a dedicated mentorship structure that supports residents in developing their scholarly projects. The program's Research Development Curriculum empowers residents to enhance their investigatory skills and prepare for academic careers. Each resident is paired with mentors who guide project development and execution, leading to potential presentations at national conferences (cited 1). The research pathways are flexible, allowing residents to choose between clinical and laboratory-based projects tailored to their interests.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
UPMC prioritizes advocacy within its residency program, particularly through the LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities) framework. This initiative promotes community engagement and allows residents to participate in advocacy projects that align with the care of affected populations. Residents are encouraged to develop and execute longitudinal advocacy projects throughout their training (cited 1).
Education and Didactic Curriculum
The educational aspect of the NDD program is robust, featuring interdisciplinary didactic sessions that include participation in various conferences, joint educational meetings with Child Neurology residents, and hands-on learning experiences. Regular sessions cover contemporary topics in neurodevelopmental disabilities and ensure that residents engage with leading-edge research and best practices in the field (cited 1).
Wellness and Support
Recognizing the demands of residency training, the program incorporates wellness initiatives within its structure. The division supports a wellness committee aimed at fostering a healthy work-life balance among residents through various social events, wellness resources, and advocacy for mental health within the residency (cited 1).
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The UPMC NDD Program is highly competitive, particularly due to its specialized focus and comprehensive training approach, making it an attractive option for applicants interested in a career addressing neurodevelopmental disabilities. Applicants for the NDD training pathway must meet distinct criteria, including prior completion of core pediatric training, and must apply through a centralized application process (cited 1). The program does consider applications from both US graduates and international medical graduates, promoting a diverse candidate pool.
Visa Sponsorship
The residency offers visa support for eligible international medical graduates. The program primarily sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating the training of physicians from various backgrounds to enhance the diversity of their educational environment (cited 1).
Website
Director
Jenna M Gaesser, MDProgram Director, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Appointed Since June 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,802First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
210Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1, F1YOG Cutoff:
10Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Pittsburgh, PA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Pittsburgh has a slightly higher-than-average crime rate compared to the national average. However, specific neighborhoods within the city vary in safety levels, so it's advisable to research the area where you'll be living.
- Fun Activities: Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, sports events, numerous parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities along its three rivers.
- Climate: Pittsburgh experiences all four seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and beautiful fall foliage.
- Races and Population: Pittsburgh is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city has a population of around 300,000 people.
- Education: Pittsburgh is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Pittsburgh is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the US, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Pittsburgh is approximately a 5-hour drive from Philadelphia and a 6-hour drive from New York City. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, entertainment, and employment opportunities.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and culture scene, affordable cost of living, beautiful outdoor scenery.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate in some areas, cold winters.
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