Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center/Mercer University School of Medicine Program

The Atrium Health Navicent Internal Medicine Residency, in partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine, offers a thorough and comprehensive education for those pursuing a career in Internal Medicine. Situated in Macon, Georgia, this program is designed to produce competent and confident internists who are comfortable working in various settings, including the ambulatory clinic and the ICU. Mercer University, recognized for its excellence in primary care medical education, grants its residents a teaching appointment, enriching the residency experience with valuable teaching and learning opportunities. The program places a strong emphasis on clinical research, with ample support for residents to engage in projects, present at state and national meetings, and publish their findings.

The unique strengths of this program lie in its small size, fostering a close-knit community where residents are seen as names, not numbers. The residents, faculty, and staff are considered the program's main strengths, providing a supportive and familial environment. The program is also evolving, continuously incorporating feedback from residents to enhance its offerings.

Macon offers a high quality of life with lower living costs, historical districts, and development along the riverfront, making it an attractive place to live and work. Nearby Atlanta provides additional cultural and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate a balance between city and suburban life.

The Medical Center Navicent Health, where the residency is based, is the second-largest hospital in Georgia and a significant referral center, ensuring residents are exposed to a diverse and challenging range of clinical cases. The residency is committed to serving the underserved, with a focus on state-of-the-art medical care regardless of patients' financial status.

Residents have the opportunity to tailor their training to their interests, with ample elective time in the second and third years and a program structure that supports pursuing fellowships, hospital medicine, or primary care. The program boasts an impressive track record of its graduates obtaining fellowships at prestigious institutions.

Training involves a series of rotations, providing exposure to a broad spectrum of internal medicine specialties and subspecialties. The residency program values hands-on experience, allowing residents to perform numerous procedures and gain consultative experience usually reserved for fellows in larger programs. Research opportunities are abundant, with the faculty providing guidance and support to engage residents in meaningful projects.

The residency program outlines clear expectations for applicants through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS), including passing scores on USMLE or COMLEX exams on the first attempt, US clinical experience, and recent medical school graduation among others. This indicates a structured and competitive entry process, ensuring that candidates meet high standards reflective of the program's quality.

In summary, the Atrium Health Navicent Internal Medicine Residency offers a nurturing and comprehensive educational environment for residents, supported by a strong community of faculty and peers, and situated in a favorable location that balances professional opportunities with quality of life.