Westchester Medical Center Program

Neurology Residency Program Overview

The Neurology Residency Program at Westchester Medical Center, affiliated with New York Medical College, offers a rigorous and comprehensive four-year categorical training program designed to produce competent and autonomous neurologists who provide integrated specialty care to diverse patient populations. Established in 1962, this program boasts a long tradition of clinical excellence complemented by a strong academic focus. Residents gain extensive exposure to clinical experience alongside a structured didactic curriculum, preparing them for both competitive fellowships and private practice upon completion of their training.1

Program Structure and Curriculum

The Neurology Residency consists of four years of training, wherein residents progressively take on greater clinical responsibilities. The first year includes six months of Internal Medicine (IM), providing a solid foundation in general internal medicine. The second year is largely dedicated to adult inpatient neurology, augmented by a required one-month rotation in Psychiatry and additional ambulatory experiences. The third year introduces residents to subspecialties such as neurocritical care, clinical neurophysiology (EEG-EMG), radiology, and child neurology. By the fourth year, residents are well-prepared to handle inpatient consultations and have opportunities to engage in elective rotations.1

Rotation Breakdown

• PGY-1: 6 months IM, 1 month of subspecialties, 1 month vacation, 4 months Neurology
• PGY-2: 5 months inpatient/stroke, 3 months epilepsy/general neurology, 1 month child neurology, 1 month neurocritical care, 1 month outpatient, 1 month vacation
• PGY-3: 2 months inpatient/stroke, 1 month epilepsy, 2 months child neurology, 1 month EMG, 1 month elective, 1 month consult service, 1 month neurocritical care, 2 months outpatient, 1 month vacation
• PGY-4: 1 month child neurology, 1 month elective, 1 month psychology, 7 months consults, 1 month neurocritical care, 1 month vacation.1

Training Environment and Facilities

The program is conducted primarily at Westchester Medical Center, a tertiary and quaternary care 652-bed academic hospital, which serves over 2.4 million residents in the Hudson Valley. The facility boasts state-of-the-art technology and a diverse patient population, which provides residents with a rich clinical education across a wide range of neurological conditions.1

Faculty and Mentorship

The Neurology faculty comprises highly qualified, subspecialty-trained neurologists who are dedicated to both education and patient care. With close accessibility to residents, the program fosters a supportive learning environment. Moreover, a structured mentorship initiative helps residents navigate their professional development, promoting effective time management and professional growth.1

Academic Schedule and Conferences

The residency features a comprehensive academic curriculum aimed at preparing residents for board certification and practical careers in neurology, with enjoyable didactic learning. Key offerings include:

• Weekly lectures on basic neuroscience and neuroanatomy
• Chair rounds and Grand Rounds with multidisciplinary collaboration
• Monthly morbidity and mortality sessions, quality conferences, research meetings, and journal clubs
• Biweekly board reviews and annual resident retreats.1

Resident Wellness and Inclusion

The program emphasizes the importance of resident wellness and fosters an inclusive atmosphere for all trainees, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual identity. Regular wellness activities include social events and outdoor retreats. The curriculum includes didactic sessions addressing health equity and diversity in neurological care.1

Application and Selection Criteria

Applicants are encouraged to have a strong commitment to Neurology demonstrated through their educational background, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and scholarly activities. Applicants must have graduated from medical school within the last five years. The program also seeks diverse candidates and aims to maintain a competitive yet supportive atmosphere.1

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program offers sponsorship for J-1 visa applicants through the ECFMG Exchange Visitor Sponsorship Program, which is critical for international medical graduates. The program is known for being friendly to both DO and IMG candidates, providing equitable opportunities for all applicants.1

Living in Westchester

Situated just outside New York City, the Hudson Valley offers an ideal setting for work-life balance, combining both the excitement of urban life and the tranquility of suburban living. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events while benefiting from the robust academic and artistic opportunities in the area.1

In summary, the Neurology Residency Program at Westchester Medical Center offers an exceptional training experience rooted in a commitment to clinical excellence, diversity, and holistic resident support.