University of Puerto Rico Program

Program Overview

The University of Puerto Rico Emergency Medicine Residency Program represents a prominent institution for training in emergency medicine since its inception in 1993. It is the first such program established in Puerto Rico, continuously evolving to meet the rigorous demands of emergency care.

This 3-year program is hosted at the University of Puerto Rico Hospital, a facility with 250 beds located in Carolina, Puerto Rico. The Emergency Department at this institution manages approximately 50,000 visits annually, providing extensive exposure to a diverse patient population, including pediatric, adult, and trauma cases, which are crucial for resident training 1.

Curriculum Structure

The training is designed to encompass a comprehensive curriculum with rotations formalized into the residency:

• First Year: Includes rotations in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Trauma Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anesthesia, Orthopedics, and EMS, complementing with vacation time.
• Second Year: Focuses more intensively on Emergency Medicine, with rotations in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, MICU, PICU, Trauma Surgery, and Neuro ICU.
• Third Year: Concentrates on complex Emergency Medicine cases along with Trauma ICU, electives, and administrative responsibilities.

Each year builds upon the experiences gained through direct patient care, helping to establish a solid foundation for future independent practice 1.

Research Opportunities

The program places significant emphasis on research, requiring residents to complete a research project prior to graduation. This aspect is facilitated by dedicated faculty members who guide residents through the research process to ensure comprehensive academic exposure 1.

Training Sites

Training occurs primarily at the University of Puerto Rico Hospital, where a well-equipped Emergency Department experienced in handling high patient volume operates under various settings, including dual trauma resuscitation areas and specialized care units. The hospital serves a large population, catering to the unique needs of the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico 1.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty consists of 13 board-certified emergency physicians, each boasting subspecialty qualifications in areas such as pediatric emergency medicine, ultrasound, and public health. Their responsibilities extend beyond teaching to encompass mentoring, ensuring residents receive continuous guidance throughout their training. The faculty’s commitment is reflected in their active roles both locally and within Central and South America, promoting the advancement of emergency medicine globally 1.

Resident Life and Wellbeing

Monitoring resident wellbeing is a departmental priority, fostering an environment that promotes mental health alongside rigorous academic and clinical training. The program encourages engagement in extracurricular activities and offers support systems tailored for residents 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is regarded as highly competitive, welcoming applications from both MDs and DOs, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). While completed USMLE Step scores are imperative, specific requirements may include a maximum limit on failed attempts. Applicants should confirm detailed requirements reflective of the current selection cycle 1.

Visa Sponsorship

This program supports visa sponsorships, which typically includes J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating both domestic and international applicants. Detailed assistance is provided to those who require visa support during the application process, promoting a more inclusive environment for all candidates 1.

Additional Opportunities

The University of Puerto Rico Emergency Medicine Residency Program fosters individual growth through additional benefits, including dues for EMRA and ACEP, funding for presenting research at conferences, and structured educational opportunities that support career advancement in emergency medicine 1.