Neurology

The Department of Neurology at New York Medical College (NYMC) is home to some of the nation’s leading sub-specialists who excel in treating a diverse array of neurological conditions. Our experts are at the forefront of care for neurologic critical care, stroke, movement disorders, tremor and Parkinson’s disease, neuro-immunology, multiple sclerosis, headache and facial pain, memory disorders, neuro-ophthalmology, neuromuscular disorders, neuro-oncology and pediatric neurology. All subspecialties of neurology are represented within the Department.

Research

Research is an integral part of the mission of the Department of Neurology. Excellence in clinical care is interwoven with advances in education and basic science, translational, and clinical research. Faculty members are at the forefront of clinical trials and innovative treatments, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in neurology.

The Department’s research portfolio spans a wide range of neurological disorders, including stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and neuro-oncology. Our faculty members are recognized experts who frequently publish in prestigious journals and present their findings at national and international conferences. Their work not only advances scientific understanding but also translates into better diagnostic tools, treatments, and care strategies for patients.

The Department of Neurology also fosters a collaborative research environment, partnering with other departments within NYMC, as well as external institutions and organizations. These collaborations enhance our research capabilities and enable us to tackle complex neurological issues from multiple perspectives.

Furthermore, the commitment to research excellence is reflected in robust support for emerging researchers. Mentorship and resources are provided to neurology residents and medical students, encouraging their involvement in research projects and helping them develop the skills necessary to become future leaders in neurological research.

Medical Student Education

Faculty in the Department of Neurology teach during the preclinical years as part of the foundational courses in neuroanatomy, MSK small groups, ethics, quality improvement, and brain and behavior courses.

During the required Neurology and Rehabilitation Clerkship, clerkship students explore a mixture of inpatient neurology, outpatient neurology, and inpatient rehabilitation experiences supplemented with standardized patient encounters and lectures on a range of topics that change weekly, including acute stroke treatment, epilepsy, and movement disorders.

Neurology Electives

The Department of Neurology offers a comprehensive range of elective rotations designed to provide advanced medical students with in-depth clinical experience and specialized knowledge in various neurological subspecialties. These electives are crafted to enhance clinical skills, foster independent learning, and prepare students for a successful career in neurology. Key neurology electives include:

Advanced Neurovascular Disease

This elective introduces advanced medical students to the evaluation and management of neurovascular diseases. Students join neurovascular residents and fellows on daily rounds, focusing on patients with cerebrovascular disease and clinical epilepsy. Under close supervision, students independently examine patients, formulate diagnostic impressions, and develop management plans. They will also correlate clinical findings with diagnostic studies like Cervical Duplex, Transcranial Ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and 4-vessel angiography. Students participate in departmental conferences, teaching sessions, and have access to current literature on cerebrovascular disease.

Clinical Epilepsy

Designed for fourth-year medical students, this elective provides comprehensive training in the evaluation and management of patients with seizures and epilepsy. The rotation includes both in-patient and out-patient services, with students rotating through adult neurohospitalist, consult, and child neurology teams. Hands-on instruction with EEG readings and participation in the epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) are key components.

Neurocritical Care

The Neurocritical Care Elective offers advanced medical students an immersive experience in the management of critically ill neurological patients. Students join a multidisciplinary team in the Neurocritical Care Unit (NCCU) at NYMC’s major clinical affiliate Westchester Medical Center, working closely with neurointensivists, neurology residents, and critical care fellows. This elective covers a wide range of conditions, including severe stroke, traumatic brain injury, status epilepticus, and neuroinfections. Students gain hands-on experience with advanced monitoring techniques, neuroimaging, and critical care procedures. Emphasis is placed on the rapid assessment and management of life-threatening neurological emergencies, with opportunities to participate in daily rounds, case discussions, and specialized neurocritical care conferences.

Neurohospitalist

This advanced elective is tailored for fourth-year medical students interested in pursuing a neurology residency. The Neurohospitalist Service at Westchester Medical Center offers a high-volume, fast-paced environment dealing with complex neurological illnesses. Students work with an attending, an advanced practice provider, and neurology medical students, managing a variety of conditions including neuromuscular disorders, neuroinfectious diseases, neuroimmunology, seizures/epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, headaches, and neuro-oncology. This rotation provides extensive exposure to diverse pathologies and the opportunity to follow patients throughout their hospital stay.

Marks Mentorship Program

The Marks Mentorship Program at NYMC is an invaluable resource for medical students interested in neurology. Named in honor of the late Dr. Stephen Marks, a distinguished neurologist, and dedicated educator, the program reflects his commitment to nurturing future generations of neurologists. This program pairs students with experienced faculty mentors who provide guidance, support, and professional development throughout their medical education. The mentorship focuses on various aspects, including academic advising, research opportunities, career planning, and personal development.

Through regular meetings, workshops, and networking events, students receive personalized mentorship that helps them navigate their medical careers, gain insights into the field of neurology, and build lasting professional relationships. The Marks Mentorship Program is instrumental in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, ensuring that students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed in their neurology careers. Dr. Marks's legacy continues to inspire excellence and dedication within the program, benefiting countless students as they pursue their passion for neurology.

Student Interest Group in Neurology (SIGN)

The Student Interest Group in Neurology (SIGN) at NYMC provides medical students with opportunities to explore the field of neurology outside of the classroom and clinical rotations. SIGN hosts a variety of events, including guest lectures from renowned neurologists, skills workshops, and networking opportunities. These activities are designed to deepen students' understanding of neurological conditions, current research, and career pathways in neurology. SIGN also facilitates community service projects and educational outreach initiatives, allowing students to engage with the broader community and promote neurological health awareness. Through SIGN, students can develop mentorship relationships with faculty and connect with peers who share a passion for neurology.

Meet the Team

Department of Neurology
New York Medical College
19 Skyline Drive, Room IS-D52
(914) 594-2200

Tracey A. Milligan, M.D., M.S.
Professor and Chair

Laurel B. Kossow
Administrator
laurel_kossow@nymc.edu