Emergency medicine residencies: A descriptive study of program structure

The steady growth in EM residency programs reflects the desirability of EM as a specialty area for training. However, a profile of programs offered nationwide is not available. OBJECTIVE: To characterize emergency medicine (EM) programs nationwide according to program format, curriculum, and opportunities for subspecialty training. METHODS: In this descriptive study, U.S. emergency medicine residency curriculums were evaluated electronically using SAEM and FRIEDA residency information websites. Data collected included program format, hospital size and volume, rotation durations, curriculum and electives offered. RESULTS: The most common format (72%, n = 87) is PGY 1, 2, 3 and PGY 2, 3, 4 accounted for 18% (n = 22) and PGY 1, 2, 3, 4 for 10% (n = 12). The average length of training in the ED is 19 months (range 7-40). Average general pediatric training is 1.8 months (range 0-5). The average number of rotations outside the primary site is 4.9 (range 0-19) and elective rotation time and topics varied considerably. Opportunities for air medical training differed by program format (82% of PGY 1-3, 79% of PGY 1-4, 75% of PGY 2-4) (table 11-1). CONCLUSIONS: There is substantial variation in curriculum, in subspecialty exposure, and in opportunity for electives for residents depending on program format and location.