https://medicine.ouhsc.edu/academic-departments Parent Page: Academic Departments id: 21768 Active Page: Message from the Program Directorsid:35514

Message from the Program Directors

Thank you for considering OUHSC as the next step in your medical journey! Our Neurology Residency Program is rooted in a tradition of clinical excellence, educational innovation, and genuine collegiality. We take pride in cultivating a learning environment that not only trains exceptional neurologists but also inspires curiosity, growth, and lifelong leadership.

At the heart of our program is a deep commitment to mentorship and education. We believe outstanding training begins with strong, supportive relationships between faculty and residents. Our attending physicians are not only leaders in their fields—they are dedicated educators who are passionate about teaching and take an active role in shaping the next generation of neurologists. Many have chosen to be here specifically because of the opportunity to work closely with residents in a hands-on, collaborative setting.

A cornerstone of our training philosophy is progressive autonomy. From day one, residents are guided by experienced mentors who provide robust support as they build their clinical acumen. Over time, that foundation evolves into greater responsibility and independence, ensuring that each graduate is confident, capable, and well-prepared for any career path—whether in academics, subspecialty practice, or community neurology. Our graduates routinely match into prestigious fellowship programs across the country, a testament to the strength of our training and the caliber of our residents.

Our clinical training is both comprehensive and diverse. Residents gain exposure to the full spectrum of neurologic conditions across multiple training sites, including OU Medical Center, the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center, OU Children’s Hospital, and OU Physicians outpatient clinics—all conveniently located on a single, connected campus. From acute stroke and neurocritical care to outpatient subspecialty clinics in epilepsy, movement disorders, neuromuscular disease, and neuroimmunology, our program offers a rich array of patient care experiences in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

We also understand that quality of life matters. Oklahoma City is a dynamic and welcoming place to live, offering the rare combination of affordability, convenience, and culture. With a low cost of living, short commutes, and an active community, our residents enjoy the time and space to pursue personal interests outside the hospital. Whether it's exploring the city's award-winning food scene, catching an NBA game (Thunder Up!), enjoying miles of biking and running trails, or attending cultural festivals and concerts, OKC offers something for everyone.

Perhaps most distinctively, our program and our city embody the “Oklahoma Standard”—a culture of resilience, kindness, and service. It’s a spirit you’ll find throughout our hospitals, clinics, and community—a shared sense of purpose and support that defines who we are and how we care for one another.

We’re excited to share more about our program and what makes OUHSC Neurology such a unique and supportive place to train. We look forward to welcoming future residents who are passionate about learning, committed to personal and professional growth, and ready to make a meaningful impact within our program, the field of neurology, and the communities we serve.


Program Directors

img-sultan-fahd-300-350-c-T-97

Fahd Sultan, MD

Assistant Professor

Director of Neurology Residency Program

Clinical Neurophysiology, Epilepsy

Leila-Gachechiladze-photo-300-350-c-T-97

Leila Gachechiladze, MD

Assistant Professor 

Associate Program Director

Epilepsy | Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases

Sarah R. Durica, MD

Assistant Professor

Associate Program Director

VAMC General Neurology, Epilepsy