I don't have firsthand knowledge of the residency program, but I was able to speak with a fellow at my institution who went there for residency. I went there for undergrad, though, and have some insight.
First off, location. Salt Lake City is a beautiful place to live. I have also traveled to southern Utah and visited Bryce and Zion national parks. In terms of natural beauty, it is probably one of the most picturesque places in the US. And world class skiing and snowboarding is only 15-20min from the hospital. Remember, the 2002 Winter Olympics were there. People may be scared off by the whole LDS thing, but the city is actually less than 50% Mormon and the mayor is even a Democrat. Lots of people from California moving in too.
Second, facilities. The University Hospital is very nice, and I understand was undergoing a renovation that is probably done by now. It sits on the side of a mountain, close to the pediatric and VA hospitals.
Third, program. I hear the PD, Dr. Renner, is the most amazing guy ever. He is a fabulous teacher and is always energetic. I also understand that as a PGY4, there is the option of going to a couple different places in Africa for a few weeks to practice international neurology. Very cool. The chair is Stefan Pulst -- if any of you open the AAN booklets, he is usually on the first few pages, the guy with a beard and a bowtie. He has been Chair of the AAN Scientific Committee for a few years now, made his name in neurogenetics. Lots of other big names, lots of people trained at Mass General, Hopkins, etc. Have their own Neuroscience Institute, and apparently relationship between neurosurgery, neurology, and neuroradiology is better than at most places. Neurocritical care unit is brand new. Neuroradiology apparently has Anne Osborne, who has written several seminal texts in her field. The Childrens Hospital is highly regarded, as is the Moran Eye Center, which are both top 10 programs. They offer fellowships in Clinical Neurophysiology with either neuromuscular or epilepsy focus, stroke, neurocritical care, sleep, neurogenetics, neuro-ophthalmology, starting movement disorders soon.
Everyone I have talked to has referred to the program as a hidden gem, or a special place, or an overlooked place. The catchment area is huge there, draws referrals from 5 states or something crazy.
So in short, I would indeed rearrange your interviews to visit there. It will be worth it.
