Dignity Health East Valley Program

Innovating the internal medicine residency experience, the Dignity Health East Valley Internal Medicine Residency Program is situated in Phoenix's East Valley. This program is committed to fostering humankindness and interactive learning, positioning itself to mold the next generation of internal medicine physicians. With the guidance of program director Dr. Allan Markus, the residency aims to accommodate individual career aspirations through a diverse curriculum that includes more than 26 selective and elective rotations. These rotations offer residents flexibility in tailoring their training according to their professional interests and career paths 1.

Curriculum

The residency program emphasizes a distinctive curriculum that promotes comprehensive learning and prepares residents to excel in varying fields within internal medicine, such as acute care hospitals, specialty medicine, and primary care. The curriculum allows for easy customization, presenting numerous elective opportunities designed to develop residents’ skills and knowledge without confining them to a fixed track 4. Special retreats and dedicated leadership development workshops are integrated into the training, highlighting the program's commitment to work-life balance and the nurturing of residents' wellness 5.

Rotations and Training Sites

Residents engage in diverse training settings, including the Chandler Regional Medical Center and Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Chandler Regional is a Level 1 Trauma Center encompassing a variety of healthcare services, while Mercy Gilbert is recognized for its comprehensive Women’s and Children’s Pavilion 7. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach during rotations, focusing not only on diagnostic proficiency but also on managing patient wellness and preventive care, equipping residents with the skills necessary for a successful career in internal medicine.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral element of the program, with ample opportunities for residents to engage in clinical trials and original research initiatives. Each resident is supported by a faculty mentor, who guides them in developing their research ideas and projects 3. Moreover, there is dedicated time for research during the PGY-2 and PGY-3 years, enhancing the scholarly development of the trainees. Presenting at the American College of Physicians meetings is also encouraged to reinforce the residents' academic exposure 2.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program is committed to creating an environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. It aims to attract residents and faculty that reflect the rich cultural landscape of the community it serves, promoting an inclusive atmosphere that prepares trainees for a patient population representative of diverse backgrounds 1.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

Currently, the Dignity Health East Valley Internal Medicine Residency Program does not sponsor visas for international medical graduates. Prospective residents should be aware of any special application requirements, including the year of medical school graduation and any limitations on previous exam attempts 6.

Program Competitiveness

The program is considered competitive, welcoming qualified applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including both MD and DO graduates, as well as international medical graduates. The faculty is highly skilled and engaged in fostering an environment conducive to educational growth, thereby attracting a broad range of applicants 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This residency program stands out due to its commitment to wellness and resiliency within the demanding field of medicine. Work-life balance is prioritized, as evidenced by the incorporation of wellness days, retreats, and support systems aimed at fostering a sustained commitment to professional and personal well-being 5. Additionally, residents are encouraged to contribute actively to program enhancements, ensuring they have a say in shaping the quality of their training experience 4.