Residency Advisor

UPMC Medical Education Program

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Pittsburgh, PA

Specialty:

Neurological surgery

ACGME Code:

1604131076

NRMP Program Code:

1652160C0
YOG 2 Research Focused J1 H1B F1

The UPMC Medical Education Program in Neurological Surgery offers a seven-year residency (PGY 1-7) designed to develop future leaders in the field of neurosurgery. The program, accredited by the UPMC Graduate Medical Education Council and the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), is regarded as one of the premier training avenues for neurosurgeons. Committed to balancing clinical expertise and scientific education, the program trains 28 residents with an annual intake of four residents until June 30, 2025. The educational approach stresses medical knowledge, patient care skills, professionalism, and effective interpersonal communication, integrated heavily with informatics in both inpatient and outpatient settings 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive structure designed to ensure diversifying competencies in neurosurgery throughout the seven-year duration. The initial years focus on supervised training, gradually transitioning residents into more independent roles.

PGY-1 Rotations

In the first year, PGY-1 residents transition from novice positions to integrated members of clinical care teams. They partake in rotations focusing on neurosurgical care, critical care medicine, and neuropathology. Additionally, they are expected to complete Step 3 of the USMLE during this year.

PGY-2 to PGY-3

The PGY-2 year advances clinical involvement emphasizing operative techniques and decision-making, during which residents can expect to assist in over 250 surgeries. The PGY-3 focuses on clinical experience in areas like vascular neurosurgery, functional neurosurgery, and the opportunity to attend a renowned research update course.

PGY-4 to PGY-7

Progressing to PGY-4, residents delve deeper into complex procedures and start preparing for the written boards. In PGY-5, residents pursue specialized clinical training, with paths available for Clinical Investigators and Surgeon Scientist Investigators. The final years, PGY-6 and PGY-7, entail serving as chief residents, managing surgical teams, and completing subspecialty clinical training or research projects 1.

Rotations and Training Sites

The primary training hospitals include UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, UPMC Mercy, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. Each of these facilities offers unique clinical experiences ranging from trauma to advanced neurosurgical procedures. PGY-5 and PGY-6 residents, for instance, gain critical experience across various services including cranial and spinal services while leading surgical teams during their chief residency.

Research Opportunities

The UPMC program heavily integrates research into its residency structure. Residents typically dedicate 18-24 months to research activities, with various projects actively supported by local, regional, and national grants. Research topics span a multitude of areas including brain tumor studies, spinal biomechanics, and cutting-edge surgical techniques 1.

Resident Awards and Accomplishments

The program actively encourages research productivity and scholarly achievements among residents. Various awards and national recognitions are presented to residents for outstanding contributions, such as travel awards, scholarship grants, and research competitions 1.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Prospective candidates are expected to submit applications through ERAS and details are available through the designated application page. The program is competitive, favoring candidates with strong academic credentials. Specific requirements may include graduation year and limitations on failed USMLE attempts. The UPMC program is welcoming to DOs and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and provides critical visa sponsorship support for eligible candidates such as J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating participation for an international cohort of residents 2.

Unique Features of the Program

One of the defining aspects of the UPMC Neurological Surgery program is its emphasis on innovation and access to advanced technology. The residency features extensive exposure to specialized areas such as stereotactic surgery, endovascular procedures, and pediatric neurosurgery. Rigorous training in emerging techniques alongside a commitment to education and research creates an environment conducive to developing highly skilled neurosurgeons well-prepared for various career paths, whether in academic centers or private practice 1.

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Director

Name
David K Hamilton, MD
Position
Professor (Spine), CCC Member, PEC Member
Appointed Since
  (Since January 2022)

Coordinator

Name
Mrs. Melissa L Lukehart
Position
GME Academic Manager
Email
lukehartml@upmc.edu

Program

Program Size

4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4 (7 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 1954

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Training

Fellowship Rate:
50%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

80 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

14 hours

First Year Salary:

$67,215

First Year Paid Vacation:

99 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

Unlimited days

Admission

USMLE Step 2 Score:
260
Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1, F1
YOG Cutoff:
2

2025 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights

No 2025 Applicant & Interview Insights available for this program.
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.

USMLE STEP 2 CK Score

No data available for Step 2 CK Score.

COMLEX Level 2 Score

No data available for Level 2 Score.

Match History

Track: 1652160C0

2024

4 of 4

2023

4 of 4

2022

4 of 4

2021

4 of 4

2020

4 of 4
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Population
302,971
Income
$66,219
Education
50.5%
Employment
61.4%
Health
4.9%
Age
33
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Rental Prices

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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