Education

Our curriculum is designed to provide a maximum amount of educational opportunity while allowing adequate personal time.  Providing a stimulating and supportive work environment is a priority for our faculty.

Orientation
To provide an appropriate introduction to the department, Albany Medical Center, and the practice of emergency medicine, all first-year residents begin their training program with a month-long orientation.  This includes formal didactic and practical laboratory sessions on clinical and administrative topics in addition to an abbreviated clinical schedule.  ACLS, ATLS, and PALS certifications are completed during the orientation month.

PGY-1
First-year residents focus on developing a strong background in emergency medicine and critical care.  The year begins with a one-month orientation balanced between formal educational sessions and clinical experience.  Inpatient rotations include one month each in Cardiac, Medical, and Surgical Intensive Care.  There are half month blocks of anesthesia and obstetrics.  First year residents also spend six months in the Emergency Department, with an additional month dedicated to Pediatric Emergency Medicine.  Four weeks of vacation/reading time are integrated into the ED months.

PGY-2
Second-year residents spend the majority of their time in the Emergency Department, taking on progressive responsibility and autonomy for patient care.  This is made up of six months of ED-Medicine/Pediatrics and four months of ED-Trauma.  Four weeks of vacation/reading time are integrated into the ED months.  There is a one month rotation in the Pediatric ICU.  Additional half month rotations provide experience in EMS/Aeromedicine and Ultrasound. Residents are encouraged to join or initiate a research project during their second year. 

PGY-3
The knowledge and experience gained in the first two years culminates in an opportunity for third-year residents to teach junior residents and medical students and supervise trauma.  Four weeks of vacation/reading time are integrated into the ED months.  Third year residents spend one month in a Community Hospital ED where they enjoy a large degree of autonomy while working alongside emergency medicine trained attendings in a community practice setting.  There are ample opportunities for educational enrichment through half month off-service rotations in EMS/Aeromedical and Administration, and during two months of electives. Among many options, popular electives include Toxicology, Radiology, International Emergency Medicine, and Research. The third year class and EMRA representative are supported for a trip to a national meeting (usually the American College of Emergency Physicians' Scientific Assembly).