Hey guys,
Another 4th year here from UC going into EM. Sorry about the new profile name, had to create a new one because my old one might give me away and I dont want it to look like I am kissing you know what before the match. I peruse the forums occasionally, but don't post much because there is rarely a topic which gets me going enough to take the time to write something. Anyways, I saw this thread and felt compelled to reply.
I hadn't heard anything about losing residents and such, and I really don't care to comment on it anyways because I am uninformed about it. I just want to tell all of you out there reading this that the people at Cincinnati are exceptional. I know UC is famous for their research/academics, etc. but they are great people all-around. There are roughly 12-14 of us matching into EM this year and they have gone out of their way to help us achieve our goals. Whether it was teaching in the department, writing letters, inviting us to conferences/dinners, helping us to make contacts at other programs, career advice, etc. - they have been eager to help us in any way that they can. Realistically, only maybe 1 or 2 of us will stay... this means that they are expending all of their energy for a group of people that will not even end up training with them. I have nothing but good things to say about how I have been treated as a student.
I don't doubt for a minute that the faculty would go the extra mile to help a struggling resident. I have worked clinical shifts with both the chairman and the PD and I can tell you that they are down-to-earth, caring individuals as well as good teachers. I have not worked with a single faculty member or resident that I felt was inadequate or that I didnt get along with. All have been excellent teachers and great with students. I have to tell you that I was particularly struck by how kind the chairman was with his patients. Dr. Gibler is a big name in the EM circle, but doesnt act as though he is too important to do the small things that may make life a little easier for his patients. Anytime you have a leader with these qualities, I really think it sets the tone for the department.
Dr. Blomkalns is excellent as well, and I would feel extremely confident in allowing her to guide my residency training.
Furthermore, after rotating through UC hospital for a couple of years, I would assert that the EM residents have been some of the best teachers I have had. Even on off-service rotations, I often learned more from them than the categorical residents because of their knowledge and approachability. In fact, I am considering UC along with a couple of other programs (other non-EM training variables playing a role) and the one thing that really makes me want to stay is the relationship that the 4th year residents have in teaching the interns. This is key for me because I think the current class of 3rd years kick a$$, and would love to work with them. Great group of guys (and girl)
I am familiar with most of them and cant imagine who it would be that was having some difficulties. My sympathies go out to this individual, whoever it may be, and I hope that things work out for the best.
Anyways, sorry I cant validate my status as a UC student, just thought it would be better to post anonymously. PM me if you have questions and best of luck in the match.
For the more senior posters here; is that something that would give you pause when making your rank list, or would you just chalk it up to bad luck/circumstances? Also, is this a normal loss rate for most EM programs?
