Cleveland Clinic Foundation/Fairview Hospital Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at Cleveland Clinic Foundation/Fairview Hospital is dedicated to developing exceptional internists equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality patient care in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The program has a strong emphasis on clinical expertise, patient safety, and the fundamentals of medical research. It includes a robust team of 36 categorical residents and two preliminary residents, all supervised by a distinguished faculty dedicated to fostering a supportive academic atmosphere.

Fairview Hospital, established in 1892, serves as the flagship institution for Cleveland Clinic's regional hospitals. It is a tertiary care facility with a level II trauma center, boasting 488 beds. The Internal Medicine Residency Program has been part of Cleveland Clinic’s graduate medical education framework since 2017, having transitioned from its original establishment in 1962.

Curriculum

The core of the residency curriculum is structured to provide comprehensive clinical training. Residents participate in rotations that encompass various domains including hospital medicine, critical care, cardiology, continuity clinic, and numerous elective opportunities. A crucial part of this curriculum is the adoption of an 8+2 model allowing for eight weeks of rotations followed by two weeks of outpatient clinic experience. This structure ensures residents take on increasing responsibilities and patient loads throughout their training years.

Clinical rotations are complemented by didactic education, including Morning Reports and specialized conferences which cover topics aligned with the core competencies required by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). Faculty-led lectures encourage deep engagement with the material, involving case discussions and critical evaluations of medical practice. The program provides mentorship and career counseling tailored to each resident's career interests.

Longitudinal Care Clinic

The Longitudinal Care Clinic experience is a notable feature of the residency, providing continuity of care and allowing residents to build long-term relationships with patients. Residents operate in diverse community health settings such as Westown Health Center and Cleveland Clinic Lakewood - Medical Outpatient Center. This exposure is particularly valuable in treating underserved populations, enhancing the residents' skills in managing diverse clinical challenges.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal aspect of the residency program, with all residents required to engage in scholarly activities, including clinical research, case reports, and database studies. The program supports research initiatives through mentorship from faculty, aiming for residents to present their findings at national conferences. The annual Research Recognition Day highlights residents' projects, fostering an environment that appreciates academic inquiry.

Competitiveness and Requirements

The residency program is recognized for being competitive, welcoming applications from candidates including DO and International Medical Graduates (IMG). Applicants must secure a score of at least 240 on the USMLE Step 2 CK during their first attempt, and all candidates should be within five years of their medical school graduation. The program sponsors both J1 and H1B visas while adhering to strict regulatory guidelines.

Patient Care Teams

Residents are structured into patient care teams, enabling collaborative learning and clinical practice. Each team comprises senior and first-year residents, fortified by an attending physician who facilitates bedside teaching. This model encourages hands-on experience and mentorship, with significant responsibilities assigned to residents as they advance through the program.

Salary and Benefits

Resident compensation is competitive and includes various benefits. For the academic year of 2024-2025, salaries are determined by the level of training, alongside benefits such as medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, and long-term disability coverage. Residents receive ample paid time off, including 21 business days of vacation annually, and support for educational expenses including conferences and professional memberships.

Diversity & Inclusion

The program emphasizes diversity and inclusion, recognizing its crucial role in enriching the educational environment. Strategies are in place to promote a culture where all residents feel valued and supported.