Clarion Hospital Program

The Transitional Year Residency at Clarion Hospital is an ACGME-accredited program designed to provide comprehensive training across a variety of medical disciplines. The residency offers four positions per year, allowing residents to experience diverse clinical rotations essential for a well-rounded medical foundation.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum for the Transitional Year encompasses a structured rotation framework aimed at equipping residents with essential skills and knowledge. Key rotations include:

• 4 weeks of Emergency Medicine
• 4 weeks of Family Medicine
• 8 weeks of inpatient Internal Medicine
• 4 weeks of Women’s Health
• 6 weeks of Night Float
• 4 weeks of Cardiology
• 2 weeks of Radiology/Emergency Ultrasound
• 4 weeks of Palliative Care
• 4 weeks of General Surgery
• 12 weeks of Elective time

Residents are allocated 12 weeks of elective time, which can be completed both in-house and at external sites, provided the supervising physician holds a valid license in the jurisdiction. This flexible elective structure fosters exposure to a variety of hospital environments and specialties, strengthening the residents' clinical breadth.

Elective Opportunities

During the 12 weeks of elective rotations, residents have the chance to design their learning path. Four weeks can be pursued at any location worldwide, promoting a global perspective on healthcare.1

Continuity Clinic

All residents will participate in a continuity clinic at BHS Rural Health Clinic in New Bethlehem, spending one afternoon each week on patient care, ensuring hands-on clinical experience and the development of long-term patient relationships.

Compensation and Benefits

The program offers a competitive benefit package inclusive of:

• Salary: $54,860
• $1,000 sign-on bonus after the first month
• Meal allowance of $175 monthly
• Pharmacy allowance of $100
• Educational allowance of $1,000
• Covers costs for COMLEX Step 3/USMLE Level 3 exam
• Healthcare benefits including dental and vision
• Malpractice insurance
• 20 paid time off days

Additionally, residents are provided with a hospital-issued laptop, scrubs, and personalized white coats, fostering a conducive learning and working environment.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

Eligibility criteria for applicants include:

• Graduates or fourth-year students from an LCME or AOA-accredited medical school or an international medical school
• Current certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
• Passing USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 or COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2
• Eligibility to obtain a medical training license in Pennsylvania

Notably, the program does not offer visa sponsorship, which significantly impacts international medical graduates looking to apply. Furthermore, applicants are encouraged to apply through the ERAS system.

Competitiveness and Environment

The residency program at Clarion is considered competitive but welcoming to diverse backgrounds, including those from DO and IMG pathways. The small program size fosters a collegial atmosphere, enhancing mentorship opportunities, and providing individualized attention from attendings and peers alike. Residents often highlight the supportive environment and the strong learning culture.2

Unique Aspects of the Program

Clarion Hospital provides an unopposed residency experience, which translates to more hands-on opportunities. This aspect is crucial for developing procedural skills and gaining confidence in patient management, which residents value greatly as they progress through their training.3