Top 10 Questions for Attending Physiatrist, Residency Program Director Interview

1. What are the key principles of patient-centered care in physiatry?

Patient-centered care in physiatry emphasizes the following principles:

• Understanding the patient’s unique needs, preferences, and goals.
• Involving the patient in all aspects of their care, including decision-making.
• Providing individualized care plans tailored to the patient’s specific needs and goals.
• Focusing on the patient’s overall well-being, not just their physical symptoms or impairments.
• Treating the patient with respect, dignity, and compassion.

2. Describe the role of interdisciplinary teamwork in the rehabilitation of patients with physical impairments or disabilities.

Collaboration and Communication

• Establishing clear lines of communication between team members.
• Regularly communicating patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
• Respecting and valuing the contributions of each team member.

Patient-Centered Care

• Working together to develop individualized rehabilitation plans that meet the patient’s specific needs.
• Ensuring that the patient is actively involved in their own rehabilitation process.
• Providing comprehensive care that addresses the patient’s physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.

Team Leadership

• Physicians taking on the role of team leaders to coordinate care and ensure smooth functioning.
• Team leaders facilitating effective communication and collaboration.
• Team leaders providing support and guidance to team members, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

3. How do you assess a patient’s functional capacity in physiatry?

• Patient interview to gather subjective information about their symptoms, limitations, and goals.
• Physical examination to assess range of motion, strength, sensory function, and other relevant physical parameters.
• Functional testing to evaluate the patient’s ability to perform activities of daily living, such as walking, dressing, and bathing.
• Review of medical records and other relevant documentation to obtain a comprehensive view of the patient’s medical history and current status.
• Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists and physical therapists, to gain insights into the patient’s functional abilities.

4. What are the ethical considerations in providing care to patients with chronic pain?

• Respecting the patient’s autonomy and right to make decisions about their own care.
• Avoiding stigmatizing or blaming the patient for their pain.
• Prescribing opioids and other pain medications judiciously, with careful consideration of the risks and benefits.
• Providing the patient with comprehensive information about their condition and treatment options so that they can make informed choices.
• Addressing the patient’s psychological and emotional well-being as it relates to their pain.

5. Describe the role of evidence-based medicine in your clinical practice as a physiatrist.

• Staying up-to-date on the latest research and clinical guidelines.
• Critically evaluating the evidence to determine the best course of treatment for each patient.
• Incorporating evidence-based practices into my clinical decision-making.
• Discussing the evidence with patients and involving them in the decision-making process.
• Using evidence-based medicine to improve the quality and outcomes of my patient care.

6. How do you manage a patient with a complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)?

• Early diagnosis and intervention to prevent chronicity.
• Multimodal approach involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medications.
• Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition.
• Providing patient education and support.
• Considering surgical interventions if conservative measures fail.

7. What are the key components of a comprehensive rehabilitation program for a patient with a spinal cord injury?

• Medical management to address acute injuries and prevent complications.
• Physical therapy to improve mobility, strength, and endurance.
• Occupational therapy to enhance functional abilities and independence in daily living.
• Vocational rehabilitation to assist with job training and placement.
• Psychological support to address emotional challenges and improve coping mechanisms.
• Social support to facilitate community integration and enhance quality of life.

8. How do you approach the evaluation and management of a patient with a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

• Initial assessment to stabilize the patient and determine the severity of the injury.
• Neurological examination to assess cognitive function, motor function, and sensation.
• Neuroimaging studies to visualize the extent of brain damage.
• Interdisciplinary approach involving physiatrists, neurologists, and other specialists.
• Rehabilitation to address cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.

9. What are the considerations for developing a residency training program in physiatry?

• Establishing a curriculum that meets the ACGME requirements.
• Recruiting qualified faculty and staff.
• Developing clinical rotations that provide residents with diverse experiences.
• Providing research opportunities for residents.
• Creating a supportive and collegial learning environment.
• Ensuring adequate funding and resources.

10. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest advances in physiatry?

• Attending conferences and workshops.
• Reading medical journals and research articles.
• Participating in online forums and discussions.
• Collaborating with other physiatrists and healthcare professionals.
• Conducting research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

As the Attending Physiatrist and Residency Program Director, you will play a vital role in the hospital’s rehabilitation department and residency program. Responsibilities include:

1. Patient Care

Providing comprehensive medical care to patients with physical disabilities or injuries, including:

• Conducting thorough physical examinations and evaluations
• Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans
• Prescribing medications, therapies, and assistive devices
• Monitoring patient progress and making necessary adjustments to treatment

2. Residency Program Management

Overseeing the residency program, including:

• Recruiting, selecting, and onboarding new residents
• Developing and implementing the curriculum
• Providing mentorship and guidance to residents
• Evaluating resident performance and providing feedback

3. Education and Research

Engaging in teaching and research activities, such as:

• Giving lectures and presentations to residents and students
• Conducting research on rehabilitation techniques and outcomes
• Publishing articles in peer-reviewed journals

4. Administration and Leadership

Providing leadership and support to the rehabilitation department, including:

• Developing and implementing policies and procedures
• Managing the budget and resources
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
• Representing the department at meetings and conferences

To ace your interview for this role, consider the following tips:

1. Research the Hospital and Program

Learn about the hospital’s mission, values, and reputation. Familiarize yourself with the residency program’s curriculum, faculty, and research initiatives.

• Visit the hospital’s website and social media pages.
• Read articles and reviews about the program and its graduates.

2. Highlight Your Relevant Experience

Emphasize your clinical expertise in physiatry and your experience in residency program management. Quantify your accomplishments and provide specific examples of your success.

• Discuss your patient care outcomes, such as improvements in function or pain reduction.
• Describe your role in developing or implementing residency curricula.

3. Demonstrate Your Leadership and Communication Skills

The Residency Program Director role requires strong leadership and communication skills. Share examples of how you have motivated and guided teams, effectively communicated with patients and families, and resolved conflicts.

• Describe your experience mentoring and supporting residents.
• Provide examples of how you have built relationships with other healthcare professionals.

4. Express Your Commitment to Education and Research

Convey your passion for teaching and research. Highlight your contributions to the field and your plans for continued professional development.

• Share your experience in giving lectures or presentations.
• Discuss your research interests and any ongoing projects.

5. Be Prepared to Talk About Your Vision

The interview panel may ask you to share your vision for the residency program. Consider preparing a brief statement outlining your goals and ideas for its future development.

• Describe your plans for enhancing the curriculum or research opportunities.
• Explain how you would foster a positive and supportive learning environment.