University of Kentucky College of Medicine Program

The University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation offers an extensive residency program that emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care. This four-year residency is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and is designed to provide residents with comprehensive training in the discipline of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), with a focus on both clinical and procedural skills.

Curriculum Overview

The residency program is structured to provide a broad exposure across various areas of PM&R. Each of the four years is structured with specific rotations and educational opportunities aimed at maximizing the residents’ learning experience. The PGY-1 year includes foundational rotations in Internal Medicine, Neurology, Orthopedic Surgery, and Trauma Surgery, while also offering outpatient experiences in physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Clinical Rotations

Throughout the residency, clinical rotations cover essential areas such as:

• Amputee Services
• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Spinal Cord Rehabilitation
• Stroke Rehabilitation
• Sports Medicine
• Electrodiagnosis

The program provides significant opportunities for hands-on experience with high levels of procedural activities, with residents exceeding national averages in several key procedures, including ultrasound-guided injections and intra-thecal baclofen pump management 1.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to participate in research initiatives to enhance their understanding and contribute to the field. The program boasts a robust faculty with a commitment to research, allowing residents access to projects that may align with their interests and career aspirations. Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, the primary training site, offers a platform for various projects and collaborations across health disciplines 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinguishing features of the University of Kentucky’s PM&R program is its interdisciplinary focus on holistic care. The program emphasizes the importance of addressing not just the physical aspects but also the psychological and social needs of patients 1. There is also a strong faculty support system, fostering an environment conducive to learning and mentorship 2.

Additional aspects include:

• Two paid conference attendances for residents, with the opportunity for additional travel awards based on research projects.
• Annual stipends for textbooks and support for DEA licensure fees.
• In-depth engagement within diverse clinical settings, significantly bolstered by the program’s liaison with local hospitals and rehabilitation facilities.

Training Sites

Key training sites for the residency include:

• Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital
• Shriners Hospitals for Children in Lexington
• Veterans Affairs Medical Centers

The diverse local patient demographics provide rich opportunities for residents to engage with a wide array of rehabilitation cases.

Application Requirements

For applicants interested in this competitive program, it is essential to note the specific requirements. The residency accepts six PGY-1 positions per year. Required documentation includes:

• Completed application through ERAS
• Personal statement detailing interest in PM&R
• USMLE or COMLEX scores (both are accepted)
• Medical school transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Photograph and Dean’s letter

Foreign medical graduates are eligible to apply but must be ECFMG certified by June 30 of the year they intend to start residency. The program only sponsors J-1 visas, with other visa types not supported. All visa-related decisions are managed by the Graduate Medical Education office 3.

Competitiveness and Diversity

This residency program is considered to be highly competitive. It promotes inclusivity and is friendly towards applicants from diverse backgrounds, including osteopathic graduates and international medical graduates 3. This approach fosters a rich learning environment by drawing from various perspectives and experiences.