Prelim location reviews and university-affiliation

[BigFightIllini]

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Two part question.

1. Is it true that you generally go through better training at university affiliated prelim programs as opposed to your private, medical center type program?

2. By region, what are the best prelim programs in terms of training and/or "cushiness" (salary, benefits, Step 3 reimbursement, free food, call...)?

New England, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, Northeast. Thanks.

 

[SkinNerd]

I disagree with the sentiment that a solid TY/Prelim program has to be university-affiliated rather than private. I think it totally depends on the program.

I have some friends who did prelim spots at big name university hospitals, who worked very hard but did not get the same amount of teaching or support as the categorical interns. They felt they were used to fill up the call schedule. Then again I know people who went through the same thing at a private hospital.

On the flip side if you want the cushiest program, you may not get the best training, no matter where you are. If you're not ever on call, and don't have the same level of responsibility as the categorical interns, you probably won't get as much out of your intern year.

I would suggest looking for a program that treats its TY/Prelims the same as the categorical interns.... but also gives you a few elective months to explore your interests / prepare for your specialty training.