Objective:

We aimed to: (1) Identify core elements and objectives of a neurology boot camp, adhering to the ACGME Neurology Milestones 2.0; (2) Design a neurology boot camp for PGY-2 residents that applies Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.

Background:

The transition from PGY-1 in Internal Medicine to PGY-2 in Neurology poses unique challenges. A “Boot Camp” model, enhanced by UDL principles, can fortify clinical skills and stress management while ensuring flexibility, variation, and engagement to support diverse learners. Evidence-based guidelines for neurology boot camp curricula are lacking, necessitating a model grounded in data-driven methodologies and experiential feedback.

Design/Methods:

The neurology boot camp, shaped by UDL principles and Neurology Milestones 2.0, integrated didactics, case-based activities, and simulation sessions, guided by current literature and needs assessments. Key domains included patient care, clinical skills, systems-based practice, and communication skills. A pre- and post-boot camp survey, employing both Likert scales and write-in sections, assessed residents’ attitudes and perceived efficacy and utility of the initiative.

Results:

In a pre-boot camp survey of 21 PGY-2-4 residents, 85.7%, 81%, and 90.4% believed the boot camp would improve confidence, competency, and reduce stress, respectively. Of the 7 PGY-2 residents who responded to the post-boot camp survey, 85.7% strongly agreed and 14.3% agreed with its implementation, and 100% strongly supported its continuity. 100% of PGY-2 residents reported that the boot camp increased their confidence in managing acute ischemic stroke and performing the neurological exam. Constructive feedback suggested diversifying one day’s heavy didactic content with varied learning modalities.

Conclusions:

The boot camp effectively enhanced resident confidence during the pivotal PGY-1 to PGY-2 transition and highlighted areas for refinement. Alignment with Neurology Milestones 2.0 and UDL principles can assist educators in designing effective boot camp curricula, providing a potentially adaptable and scalable guide for neurology educators.