Hornet871, I agree. Most people don't seem to talk much about NYC programs. Although I did a month away-rotation at King's County Hospital in Brooklyn, I can't say I know much about other area programs other than what you learn on interview day. As for KCHC, I truly enjoyed the experience as a medical student unfamiliar with the area. But, I can't imagine completing a residency there. The residents are extremely over-worked. Only the residents that "knew what it was liked before I applied" seemed to like it a little. Some graduating seniors said they would never do it again. Yet still others admit they absolutely loved the experience. It seems they have to start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel (ie PGY3/4) before they have any positive thoughts about the program.
I, too, wish more NY students would relay their experiences with their area hospitals because most of them rotate at several hospitals and would have a better idea of the programs. But, my experience with some NY students (at least during my rotation) is that they are very secretive about the pros and cons of area programs. I guess they think you may take their spot or something silly.
Anyway, mountebank, I was also impressed with SLR. What it lacks in trauma, it makes up in medical/surgical emergencies. I know you will come out well prepared for practice. Plus, the residents are happy, and they do get to enjoy what the city has to offer. And, its a three year deal affiliated with Columbia Univ.
Bellevue- During my rotation at KCHC, I heard several students with good things to say about Bellevue. I honestly don't remember what they were though. I think its really laid back in that they don't have lots of trauma. Actually, some students that rotated there didn't even see one trauma case during their entire rotation. There were a few attendings at KCHC that graduated from the Bellevue residency program, one of whom revealed to me that s/he was so unprepared with level 1 trauma patients before coming to KCHC that s/he almost lost it when she had to crack her first chest. Not to worry, s/he's doing much better now.
Apparently, they don't get much hands on with trauma, but I think the didactics are center focus...
Jacobi- Lots of trauma...Lots of med/surg...Long hours, but residents seem to be happy. At least they were at the interview
Great resident training, definitely prepared for anything when you graduate. But, like my attending told me- "is it really necessary to see 100 episodes of appendicitis to learn how to treat it." Same goes with trauma...But, the program has a great name and they do get mad respect outside of NY.
Lincoln- Oh my God...would never put myself through the madness. Long hours 20-22 shifts throughout the four years. Lots of trauma...One of the busiest ERs in NYC and its burroughs-including Jacobi and KCHC. Could probably work anywhere after graduation, but can get great training at many more laxed environments...They won't be on my list...
Mt. Sinai- Great training between Elmherst and Mt. Sinai. Great for those interested in research, as well. Geat name. Attendings from all over the country make for a very diverse faculty. Residents are happy for the most part, and they have great housing, too. Downside: PGY2-4. Sorry, can't think of anything else.
Methodist- Low trauma, but residents rotate through KCHC for trauma. Great commraderie, residents couldn't be more happy. They probably have the best housing options in the area- nice Brooklyn brownstones. Bad idea if you're thinking about academics, being that it is a community program...But if you know you don't want to do academics later, then go for it...its the only other three year deal in the area...
Metropolitan & Maimonides- declined interivews
Northshore- didn't apply, but rotating students love the laxed environment, coupled with great teaching...
Just my thoughts mountebank, hope they help...