ED shifts are structured to maximize instruction and clinical experience.  Highlights:

• 9-hour shifts with a built in 1-hour overlap with oncoming residents.  The overlap allows for a ‘wrap up’ period and eases the transition that must occur at the end of shifts.
• Decreased shift responsibilities with increasing EM level.

                      EM-1                   EM-2                   EM-3

                         23                        22                        20

• Minimum of double attending coverage except during the hours of 3 AM – 7 AM.  Such coverage enhances both teaching and patient care.
• Philosophy of ‘Graded Responsibility’.  During the progression from an EM-1 to an EM–3, residents will be expected to become more independent and more efficient.  Senior level residents will also assume a greater role in managing the overall department and assist in the instruction of both junior level residents and medical students.