BayCare Health System - Mease Countryside Hospital Program

The Mease Countryside Hospital Internal Medicine Residency Program offers a community-focused training experience aimed at enhancing the healthcare services available to families in West Central Florida. Emphasizing a 'train to retain' philosophy, the program is committed to the professional development of its residents, fostering an environment that encourages them to practice in the Tampa Bay area after residency or fellowship. With its establishment as a new residency program, it presents numerous opportunities for innovation in medical education, where residents are motivated to actively contribute ideas for ongoing improvements in the program's design and structure.

In this program, residents engage in a close mentorship relationship with faculty, which is further supported by the option to choose additional advisors catering to their individual needs and career interests. Recognizing the importance of resident wellness, the program incorporates education and awareness initiatives focused on various wellness topics, which are promoted through social events, conferences, online resources, and incentive programs.

Curriculum

The Internal Medicine program employs a 4 + 1 schedule format, where residents participate in four weeks of clinical rotations followed by one week dedicated to continuity clinic. This innovative structure enhances the training experience by balancing clinical responsibilities with dedicated educational time and personal growth opportunities, which are essential for resident wellbeing. Each residency year consists of eleven four-week block rotations complemented by a continuity clinic, adapting to individual training tracks while ensuring a strong foundation in both general internal medicine and subspecialty care 1.

Didactic Curriculum

The didactic curriculum features a robust educational framework that includes daily and structured sessions aimed at developing residents' clinical reasoning and medical knowledge. The Morning Report promotes interactive discussions centered around clinical case presentations, which not only engage residents but also invite insights from attending faculty. This daily gathering is designed to stimulate resident participation and empower their growth from the outset of their day.

Another integral component is the Academic Half Day (AHD), structured as a weekly four-hour session that focuses on comprehensive educational aims, covering essential topics necessary for developing a well-rounded physician. Key offerings include IM Board Review, Journal Club, Grand Rounds, general and ambulatory medicine discussions, subspecialty topics, case presentations, as well as wellness-related themes addressing physical, mental, and financial health. The AHD is a vital venue for building the clinical competencies and professional development of residents throughout their training.

Applicant Criteria

Applications for the program are processed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with selection conducted via the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Important elements required for application include a curriculum vitae (CV), a personal statement, official medical school transcripts, a Medical School Performance Evaluation (MSPE) or Dean's letter, USMLE (Step 1, Step 2CK, Step 2CS) or COMLEX (Level 1, Level 2-CE, Level 2-PE) scores, and three letters of recommendation. It's essential to note that the program does not currently accept J1 or H1B visa sponsorship for its applicants. Therefore, students requiring these types of visas should plan accordingly as part of their application process 2.

Faculty

The program's faculty is led by Dr. Johnathan Frunzi, a board-certified Internal Medicine physician recognized for his robust background in Graduate Medical Education (GME). His expertise, coupled with a commitment to high-quality medical education and resident training, forms a foundational pillar for the program. Faculty engagement is designed to ensure that residents benefit from mentorship and guidance throughout their residency experience, thereby fostering a productive and enthusiastic learning atmosphere 3.

Living in Tampa Bay

The residency program is located in Safety Harbor, Florida, within the picturesque Tampa Bay area. Residents will have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant community and rich culture that Tampa Bay offers while engaging in their medical training. Living in this dynamic environment enhances both personal and professional growth.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a critical aspect of the Mease Countryside Hospital Internal Medicine Residency Program. The program aims to provide culturally competent care and addresses the multifaceted needs of patients served by the healthcare system, preparing residents to be culturally aware practitioners in their future careers.