The New York Society of PM&R: A Resident’s Experience
By Sean Bemanian, MD
Initially founded in 1921, the New York Society of PM&R is a pillar of the physiatric experience in New York City. The society has strongly advocated for physicians and patients since its inception. Attendings, residents, and medical students gather for monthly lectures on the first Wednesday of each month at NYU Langone Medical Center. Talks are given by nationally and internationally known speakers. Board committee members meet monthly to discuss pressing issues that arise and plan for future events and activities. Meetings are followed by a networking happy hour in Midtown, where members interact with residents and fellows from nearly all PM&R programs in the NY/NJ area.
Just like many medical students I was introduced to PM&R during clinical rotations. After learning about the society from a few mentors, I was immediately drawn to the comradery and personable nature of its members. The gatherings provided a warm and friendly environment for medical students to become acquainted with the field of rehabilitation medicine. During residency, I continued my participation as a member of the legislative committee. The committee participates in advocacy events several times a year and updates members on governmental policy that specifically affect physiatrists. The annual Lobby Day draws members to the state capital in Albany to meet with elected representatives of the New York State Senate and Assembly. Meetings are conducted in small group sessions where physicians voice their concerns on central issues brought forth by doctors across New York State.
Throughout the academic year an array of educational activities are available for members. These include workshops conducted for musculoskeletal ultrasound, prosthetics and orthotics, as well as spasticity management. Residents also have monthly board review lectures and an annual mock oral board exam. Acute medical coverage is provided for a variety of sporting events, including the Special Olympics and the NYC Marathon. The annual Career Fair allows residents to meet with fellowship directors and job recruiters to learn about opportunities available post-residency. Research night is a platform for programs to highlight their commitment to research and for members to present their findings in a collegial environment. Finally, the Rehab Bowl is a competitive contest to determine which PM&R program takes home the trophy and claims bragging rights for the year.
State societies provide an engaging and interactive environment for exposure to rehabilitation medicine outside of residency training. Faculty attending are committed to providing mentorship and there are ample opportunities for networking and development of leadership and organizational skills. As the field of rehabilitation medicine continues to grow, getting involved will enrich the residency experience and provide a supplement to residency based learning.
Sean Bemanian is a resident physician in PM&R at the Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center, New York
