Corewell Health Lakeland Program

Overview of the Internal Medicine Residency Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at Corewell Health Lakeland in St. Joseph offers a comprehensive three-year training accredited by the ACGME. This program provides a curriculum focusing on inpatient and outpatient care, designed to prepare residents for the practice of internal medicine as general internists, hospitalists, or for pursuit of fellowship training. The training largely occurs at the main hospital based in St. Joseph, Michigan.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is structured over three years, each with distinct focuses:

Year 1

This phase emphasizes foundational medical knowledge through various core rotations, including:

• General Medicine - 5 blocks
• ICU - 1 block
• Nights - 2 blocks
• Geriatrics - 1 block
• Ambulatory Continuity Clinic - 1 block
• Pulmonary - 1 block
• Selective - 1 block
• Cardiology - 1 block

Year 2

In the second year, residents enhance their clinical efficiency and expand into specialty areas, which include:

• General Medicine - 3 blocks
• ICU - 1.5 blocks
• Gastroenterology - 1 block
• Nephrology - 1 block
• Ambulatory Continuity Clinic - 1 block
• Emergency Medicine - 1/2 block
• Research - 1 block
• Cardiology - 1 block
• Selective - 1 block
• Elective - 1 block

Year 3

The final year prepares residents for independent practice. The rotations include:

• Internal Medicine - 3 blocks
• Admitting - 1 block
• ICU - 1 block
• Nights - 1 block
• Rheumatology - 1 block
• Hematology/Oncology - 1 block
• Endocrinology - 1 block
• Infectious Disease - 1 block
• Neurology - 1 block
• Selective - 1 block
• Elective - 1 block

All years include ambulatory clinic days, ensuring comprehensive outpatient experience.

Resident Engagement and Support

The program is known for its supportive environment, characterized by a low trainee-to-faculty ratio. This ensures personalized guidance and mentorship throughout the training process. Faculty members, several of whom have trained at prestigious institutions, are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and educational atmosphere.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Corewell Health Lakeland emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment. The program actively recruits residents from underrepresented backgrounds, aiming to reflect the community's diversity. This commitment is foundational to improving healthcare outcomes.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research, with access to dedicated resources, including research coordinators, statisticians, and workshops. The scholarly activity program emphasizes peer-reviewed publication and active participation in ongoing clinical studies.

Fellowship Opportunities

Post-residency, a significant number of graduates have successfully matched into fellowship programs across various specialties, reflecting the program's strength in preparing candidates for advanced training.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process requires submission through the ERAS, along with personal statements, letters of recommendation, medical school transcripts, and USMLE or COMLEX scores. Candidates typically demonstrate a strong academic record and clinical experience. While the program is competitive, it welcomes applications from DO and IMG candidates, reflecting a commitment to diversity in medical training.

Additionally, the program supports international medical graduates and J-1 visa sponsorship, facilitating a more diverse resident body.

Resident Life

Located near Lake Michigan, the area offers a blend of charm and outdoor activities, with numerous recreational opportunities for residents. The local community is vibrant, with local farms, wineries, and beaches enhancing the quality of life.