There are two resident continuity clinics. Each is a half day clinic. Though most residency programs only have one continuity clinic per week, we feel strongly that two clinics are necessary to prepare residents for the predominantly outpatient experience that private and academic clinical neurologists must face after residency. During all resident clinics, there is at least one neurology attending present to guide residents. The patients you see during these clinics are your patients – you have autonomy to diagnose and treat. By the end of your residency, you will feel very comfortable treating patients in an outpatient setting. Our two resident continuity clinics are located in the Birmingham VA Hospital and Cooper Green Hospital.

Birmingham VA Hospital Neurology Clinic

The VA Hospital is located directly across the street from University Hospital. PGY2 and PGY3 residents have their clinic Thursday afternoons and PGY4 residents have their clinic on Friday mornings. A typical clinic consists of two new and six return patients. In keeping with ACGME regulations, residents may not attend clinic when post-call. Residents on the stroke tream do not have clinic during that particular month. Often there are medical students in the clinic to assist and learn. Occasionally there are rotating medicine and/or psychiatry residents present also.

With an electronic records and orders system, patient care is practical and efficient. For example, we are able to look at MRIs on the computers located in every clinic room. The veterans we serve are very appreciative of the quality care we offer, and this clinic is a very rewarding experience for residents.

Cooper Green Neurology Clinic

Cooper Green Hospital is located two blocks from University Hospital. It is the county hospital, primarily serving the indigent population of Birmingham. The Cooper Green Neurology clinic is held on Friday afternoons. This clinic is for PGY2 and PGY3 residents only. PGY4 residents do not go to this clinic. Residents on the following rotations do not have Cooper Green neurology clinic during the rotation: pediatric neurology, stroke, consults, VA. Like the VA clinic, medical students are often present to assist and learn.

Being a county hospital serving an underserved community, this clinic is a wonderful learning experience. Patients frequently present in early, middle, and even latter stages of common and uncommon neurological disorders. Because resources are limited, your clinical diagnostic skills become sharpened quickly.