VCU vs San Antonio

[midwestpmr]

I am trying to figure out where to do a November rotation in PM&R. I was wondering if I could get some opinions on VCU or San Antonio. I have a decent idea about San Antonio as a few of the docs I worked with on my last rotation went there, but any other opinions still help. Opinions of any other schools would be great too! Thanks

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[abbyjakeboston]

I am a resident in San Antonio - there is excellent training available here. We have had a few hiccups b/c of funding issues (actually too much funding) which caused numerous changes most of which have benefitted the residents including a night float system. I have come to appreciate the formal rotations in Geriatrics/Palliative Care, Orthopedics, Neurosurgery, Rheumatology, and MSK as opposed to a traditional year of internal medicine. The curriculum is well rounded and you feel more prepared to work with those specialists in "real life" because you have spent time on their service. Strong attendings, guaranteed rotations in Sports and Pain in addition to those above, two months of dedicated Spinal Cord (which counts towards internal medicine credit), close parking, two paid national conferences, it's a unique four year set up so no separate prelim stuff. Also one of the best places to move according to those who make those lists. Just my two cents. Good luck.

 

[midwestpmr]

Thanks for your input! I know the 3 docs I've talked to that have trained there all had really positive things to say about it. What types of fellowships do they have at San Antonio, in particular pain, and are they open to PM&R grads? Do most of the grads there get into fellowships if they desire them? Thanks in advance!

 

[el piel]

The only fellowship opportunity available here in San Antonio is the Pain Management fellowship. It is run through the Anesthesia department, and I believe has 4 fellows per year, half of which are PM&R, including one who is typically taken from the UTHSCSA PM&R residency program.

For the last 3 years (as far back as I know) about half of each graduating class does a fellowship in pain or sports/spine, though some pursue other fellowships as well (bringing the total to pursue fellowship to about 2/3). Everybody who has sought a fellowship has received one.

It is my experience that residents from this program are well prepared to either pursue fellowship or go straight into clinic (academic or private) practice.

Hope this helps! Good luck with the decision-making process!