Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine Program
Location:
Kalamazoo, MISpecialty:
Emergency medical servicesACGME Code:
1122511001Overview of the Emergency Medicine Residency Program
The Emergency Medicine Residency Program at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine is a three-year ACGME-accredited program designed to cultivate proficient emergency clinicians in a supportive educational environment.
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the American Board of Emergency Medicine's Qualifying Exam. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to offer flexibility and encompasses a broad spectrum of medical practice, with a focus on critical care and emergency medical services (EMS).
The program stands out due to its integration of education and clinical excellence from two prominent tertiary care centers, providing residents with hands-on experience and access to a diverse patient population, with over 160,000 annual visits.
1Curriculum Structure
The residency program consists of structured clinical rotations, weekly educational conferences, and a variety of supplementary training activities such as simulation labs.
First Year (PGY-1)
The inaugural year emphasizes foundational skills through rotations in Emergency Medicine, Adult and Pediatric Critical Care, Pediatrics, Anesthesiology, and Trauma. Additionally, residents take part in a longitudinal emergency medicine ultrasound curriculum.
Second Year (PGY-2)
During the second year, the program stresses critical care, incorporating rotations in Adult Critical Care and other essential emergency medicine experiences. Residents engage with optical and obstetric care alongside extensive emergency department shifts.
Third Year (PGY-3)
The final year emphasizes leadership in the emergency department, with responsibilities in teaching and managing care for junior residents and medical students, significantly enhancing educational dynamics.
6Clinical Experience and Rotations
The residency fosters substantial clinical engagement through diverse rotations across Borgess Medical Center and Bronson Methodist Hospital, encompassing a vast variety of patient interactions. Notably, the hands-on EMS training is an integral part of the curriculum, as residents participate in field experience through the Medical Support Unit (MSU-1), which operates under real EMS scenarios.
4Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects, often presenting their findings at national conferences. The program supports travel funding for selected meetings to foster the professional development of its trainees.
3Unique Features of the Program
One of the distinguishing attributes of the residency is its active participation in EMS and disaster medicine training, facilitated through local partnerships, allowing residents to contribute significantly to community healthcare preparedness.
Active Participation in EMS
The MSU-1 resident-staffed medical support unit allows for extensive interaction with various EMS personnel, providing essential skills and experience in managing emergent situations. Residents are typically scheduled for 24-hour shifts to respond to major incidents.
2Disaster Medicine Training
Through collaborations with the Kalamazoo County Medical Control Authority, residents develop competencies in disaster response, healthcare preparedness, and the intricacies of emergency management.
5Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The program welcomes applications from all medical backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates. Special application requirements may include recent graduation dates; however, the program does not explicitly limit applicants based on STEP exam attempts.
Visa Support
The residency offers support for J-1 visa applications and is open to sponsoring H-1B visas, ensuring international applicants can seek educational opportunities without administrative hurdles.
Life in Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo offers a familial atmosphere while providing access to outdoor activities, community events, and academic resources through partnerships with Western Michigan University. The region supports a vibrant lifestyle with diverse cultural and recreational opportunities.
7Website
Director
Joshua D Mastenbrook, MDProgram Director / Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine Appointed Since November 2018Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
64hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$65,750First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Kalamazoo, MI
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Kalamazoo, MI
- Crime Rate and Safety: Kalamazoo has an average crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. It is important to be cautious in certain areas, but overall, safety measures are in place.
- Fun Activities: Kalamazoo offers a variety of cultural activities, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a vibrant food scene. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, hiking trails, local breweries, and music festivals.
- Climate: Kalamazoo experiences four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with some snowfall, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures.
- Races and Population: Kalamazoo has a diverse population with residents of various races and ethnicities. It is a welcoming community with cultural events that celebrate its diversity.
- Education: Kalamazoo is known for its educational institutions, including Western Michigan University. Residents have access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Kalamazoo is lower than the national average. Housing prices, groceries, and healthcare costs are relatively affordable.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Kalamazoo is about an hour drive from Grand Rapids and two hours from Chicago. Grand Rapids offers a bigger city experience with cultural attractions and a bustling downtown area, while Chicago provides access to world-class entertainment and dining options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural activities, access to outdoor recreation, proximity to larger cities.
- Cons: Some areas may require additional safety precautions, winters can be cold.
Interview Questions
