Program Strengths
Faculty and patient care
Our department is a regional leader in neurologic care. The faculty are outstanding clinicians, teachers and researchers recognized nationally and internationally for their achievements. Most of our neurologists specialize in a particular disease or category of diseases and conduct subspecialty clinics in which residents participate on a regular basis. This focused subspecialization enables the residents they mentor and teach to become experts in managing neurological disorders. Our faculty is especially adept at diagnosing and treating complex disorders that have not received a diagnosis elsewhere. In addition to subspecialty clinics we have busy general neurology clinics including the resident continuity clinic.
Resident driven learning and feedback
Attendings adopt a supervisory role and encourage senior and junior residents to make decisions and actively participate in the management and treatment of the patients. Residents provide key input about all aspects of the program. Residents complete an annual anonymous survey which helps fashion the structure and direction of our program and provides important input to the faculty. These surveys have resulted in important changes within our program which have enhanced the learning experience for our residents. There is a friendly and collegial environment for residents, and the faculty’s goal is to make the residency experience one that is rewarding from both a social and educational point of view.
Comprehensive didactics
We offer a comprehensive series of didactic lectures covering the major topics in neurology. The lecture series repeats every 2 years. In addition, every July a series of lectures on neurological emergencies are presented for the benefit of new residents to prepare them for dealing with such cases on the inpatient service. Every didactic lecture is followed the next day by a one hour session of multiple choice questions related to the lecture topic. The educational program has been one of the cornerstones of the exemplary performance of our residents in the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certification examination. Our certification examination pass rate for first-time takers has been 100 percent for more than 10 years.
Night float
The Night Float rotation was created in order to help ensure that on-service residents are adequately rested during the regular work day by relieving them of overnight call duties. It is a senior-level rotation, with more independence in clinical decision-making as compared to junior residents. Independence in clinical decision making is encouraged, but supervising faculty remain available.
Electives
Many electives are offered in our program and include: research, EMG, EEG, Parkinson’s Disease, Ethics, Radiology, Neurorehabilitation, Neurosurgery, Multiple Sclerosis, Neuro Critical Care, and Headache. The option to customize your elective is available in the event residents do not want a full month of training in any one area.
Mentors
At the beginning of the PGY2 year, residents will select a mentor. Mentors will meet with residents at least twice a year to discuss research, academics, or personal matters. Additional meetings are scheduled as requested or needed. The purpose of the resident mentoring program is to mentor residents in research, academic neurology, education or private practice. Mentors play an integral part in resident training.
Resident Funds
Residents will have access to $2000 at the start of their first year. Funds can be used for educational items including textbooks, question banks, or travel to professional meetings. At the end of every resident’s fourth year, they will have access to an additional $2000 to attend the Annual Penn Neurology Board Review Course. The program will cover each resident’s AAN membership and ACLS/BLS training, as well as registration for the RITE.