Jan 31, 2018
Overview
Graduate Medical Education at Fairfield Medical Center
The program offered at Fairfield Medical Center (FMC) provides an enriching environment for training in Family Medicine. It is situated near both metropolitan Columbus and the rural Appalachian areas of southeast Ohio, leveraging its unique location to provide exposure to a diverse patient population and a wide range of pathologies. The residency is committed to community-focused healthcare and emphasizes osteopathic principles in training.
1The training structure allows residents to experience both the breadth associated with larger training programs and the hands-on experiences found in rural medicine. The close collaboration with Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine enhances the educational experience, ensuring a commitment to professional accountability and collegial dialogue among peers. This relationship allows for tailored training that prepares residents to meet and define competencies in clinical practice.
1Application and Selection Process
Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and each applicant is required to submit several supporting documents. These include the ERAS application and personal statement, three letters of recommendation from physicians, an office transcript from medical school, and a Dean's letter from the medical school. The program also emphasizes a clear set of minimum requirements, which applicants must meet to be eligible for a residency position.
1Interviews are conducted virtually, typically taking place on Wednesdays and Fridays. The selection committee utilizes feedback from interviews along with insights from program directors to create a final rank list of candidates for residency positions. This thorough and structured process allows the program to identify candidates who align with its community-oriented mission.
1Residency Structure and Benefits
The Family Medicine residency typically involves comprehensive rotations across various specialties, allowing residents to develop a well-rounded skill set. During the residency program, salaries are structured incrementally with PGY 1 residents earning $64,500, PGY 2 residents earning $66,500, and PGY 3 residents earning $69,000 annually. Residents also receive benefits comparable to those offered to other hospital employees, including multiple insurance options and participation in retirement and welfare benefit plans.
1Additional support provided to residents includes annual memberships in relevant medical organizations, conference attendance, and access to educational resources such as the NEJM Knowledge+ program. Residents also receive essential equipment such as laptops and smartphones that meet the institution's IT requirements.
1Unique Aspects of the Program and Training Environment
A unique feature of the program is its commitment to no call for students or residents while they are off service, which is paramount for maintaining work-life balance. Residents also have the opportunity to engage in outpatient care through resident-run clinics, which significantly enhances their learning experience. The program also facilitates audition rotations, allowing prospective residents to experience the training firsthand while receiving dedicated mentorship from attending physicians.
1Fairfield Medical Center provides a supportive environment for both domestic and international medical graduates. The program is known for being friendly to DOs and IMGs, thereby diversifying the learning environment with various perspectives and backgrounds.
1Visa Support and Competitiveness
The Family Medicine residency program at FMC supports various visa types, ensuring compliance with immigration requirements for international applicants. As a highly competitive program, it allows foreign graduates to apply for residency positions under sponsorship guidelines that enable further education and training in the United States.
1Specific application requirements include a maximum of one failed STEP exam attempt, ensuring that all residents meet the necessary qualifications to keep up with the rigorous training expected within the program.
1Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
4, 4, 4 (3 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: January 28, 2026)
Composition [2]
Training
Fellowship Rate:--
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:0.2X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: --
First Year Paid Vacation: 20 days [1]
First Year Salary: $64,500 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 12 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 50 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: --
Visa Sponsorship:-- [2]
YOG Cutoff:1 [1]
Race / Ethnicity
Gender
Incoming Schools
18%
Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
18%
University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine
9%
A. T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
9%
Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
* Multiple schools share the same admissions rate.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Signals
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
No data available for USMLE
STEP 2 CK Score
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
Match History [4]
Roster
Location
Lancaster, OH 43130 [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing — Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime — All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
Living in Lancaster, OH
Lancaster, OH, offers a mix of suburban and rural living with a small-town feel. Here are some key aspects of living in Lancaster:
Crime Rate and Safety
Lancaster has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in Ohio, making it a safe place to live.
Fun Activities
Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at nearby parks and nature preserves, as well as cultural events and local festivals.
Climate
The climate in Lancaster features cold winters and warm summers, providing a variety of seasonal activities.
Races and Population
The population of Lancaster is diverse, with a mix of residents from different races and backgrounds.
Education
There are quality public and private schools in Lancaster, as well as opportunities for higher education at nearby colleges and universities.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Lancaster is relatively affordable, offering residents a good balance between expenses and quality of life.
Nearby Cities
Columbus, Ohio's capital city, is approximately 30 minutes away from Lancaster by car. Columbus offers a wide range of amenities, entertainment, and job opportunities.
Pros
- Affordable cost of living
- safe environment
- proximity to Columbus for additional amenities.
Cons
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options within Lancaster itself.
FAQ
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References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/1203800707
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/efffc062-489e-3ed1-1fd1-7babe6841117
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=160XX00US3941720
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr