Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation Program

Specialty:Internal medicine
ACGME Code:1405612442
NRMP Code:1774140C0
Status:Continued Accreditation

Overview

The Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation Program in InternalMedicine represents a robust opportunity for aspiring internistsand hospitalists looking to advance their medical careers. Theprogram is designed to provide residents with a comprehensiveeducational experience that fosters both independence and acollaborative environment.

Program Overview

Residents will benefit from a progressive curriculum emphasizingautonomy, evidence-based practice, and a multidisciplinaryapproach. Educational goals encompass preparing residents for boardexaminations through an ingenious balance of formal teachingconferences and hands-on clinical practice. The Internal MedicineResidency Program is highly regarded for its emphasis on wellness,ensuring that physicians in training prioritize self-care whilepursuing their medical education 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured around 13 four-week rotations eachyear, adhering to the X + Y + Z rotation framework. This involves acombination of inpatient medicine, elective subspecialty rotations,and continuity clinics designed to provide consistent patient careexperiences. Notably, the program's design ensures that noovernight call is required during rotations, aligning with ACGME80-hour workweek guidelines to prevent burnout and promote residentwell-being 3.

Throughout their training, residents will engage in corerotations, which include critical areas such as General MedicineWards, Cardiology, and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), allowing fora broad spectrum of patient care experiences 3.Advanced training in sub-specialties is available in areasincluding Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, and Infectious Diseaseamong others, providing ample opportunities for individualizedlearning.

Procedures and Critical Care Training

Hands-on training in essential procedures is emphasized, includingcentral venous and arterial line placements, intubation, andthoracentesis, with opportunities to practice in both simulationenvironments and actual patient cases 4. The ICUexperience is comprehensive, providing training in managingcritically ill patients with various medical issues, an essentialfoundation for residents interested in pursuing fellowshipopportunities in critical care 5.

Educational Opportunities and Resources

The program enjoys a reputation for granting residents autonomywhile simultaneously providing essential supervision andmentorship. Faculty invest time in fostering educational growth,holding daily formal teaching conferences and individualizedlearning sessions 2. Additionally, residents receivesupport for board exam preparation, utilizing subscriptions toresources like NEJM Knowledge+ alongside weekly board reviewclasses, enhancing their readiness for certification5.

Research and Fellowship Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research during theirtraining, supported by a dedicated team that includesbiostatisticians and media specialists. About 30-40% of graduatestransition to fellowship programs at prestigious institutions,underscoring the program’s strong academic foundation6. Opportunities for presentations at state andnational meetings further bolster the residents' professionalportfolios.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The Gundersen Internal Medicine Residency program is competitiveand seeks applicants who have passed USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 ontheir first attempts. Candidates who graduated from medical schoolwithin the past two years are preferred. The program also welcomesinternational medical graduates who possess ECFMG certificationupon starting their residency 2. Visa sponsorship isavailable for H1 and J1 visas, with the program being exempt fromthe H1 cap, which broadens the program's accessibility forqualified international candidates.

Community and Lifestyle

Located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the program encourages a work-lifebalance through community engagement and wellness initiatives.Residents benefit from a variety of housing options close to themedical center, allowing for easy integration into both career andcommunity life. La Crosse is recognized for its culture and outdooractivities, supporting a fulfilling lifestyle away from medicalresponsibilities 2.

Web sources

SmartPick

Program data

ACGME History

Accreditation Last updated: Jul 16, 2026
Initial accreditation0
Full accreditation0
Continued27
Warning0
Probationary Accreditation0
Withdrawal0

Program

Program Size

-- (3 years)

Accreditation Status

Continued Accreditation

(Effective: January 23, 2026)

Composition

MD · 62%
DO · 25%
Non-U.S. IMG · 13%

Training

Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:0.8X

Quality of Life

First Year Paid Sick Leave: --

First Year Paid Vacation: --

First Year Salary: --

Admission

Visa Sponsorship:--

YOG Cutoff:--

Gender

Rotation Duration by Site

No rotation duration data available.

Benchmarks

Scores

Match History

Track ID:  1774140C0
2020
8 of 8
2021
8 of 8
2022
8 of 8
2023
8 of 8
2024
6 of 8
2025
8 of 8
2026
8 of 8
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Roster

Location

La Crosse, WI

Population
120,784
Median income
$70,010Below
Education
39.1%Above
Employment
66.1%Below
Health
3.3%On par
Age
38Below
  • Above the national average
  • Below the national average
  • Similar to the national average

Housing — Rental prices

Rental prices

Crime — All violent offences

Rate per 100,000 residents

Living in La Crosse, WI

Crime Rate and Safety

La Crosse has a moderate crime rate compared to other cities in Wisconsin. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings.

Fun Activities

La Crosse offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and water sports on the Mississippi River. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Climate

La Crosse experiences all four seasons. Summers are warm and humid, while winters can be cold with significant snowfall. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Races and Population

La Crosse has a diverse population, with a majority of residents identifying as White. The city also has significant populations of Hispanic, African American, and Asian residents.

Education

La Crosse is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. The city has a strong educational system and numerous opportunities for lifelong learning.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in La Crosse is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live. Housing costs, utilities, and groceries are all reasonably priced.

Proximity to Bigger Cities

La Crosse is about 2.5 hours away from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and 3.5 hours from Madison, Wisconsin. Both cities offer additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents.

Pros

  • Affordable cost of living
  • outdoor recreational opportunities
  • diverse population.

Cons

  • Winter weather can be harsh
  • limited public transportation options.

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Nearby programs

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External Links

1. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=050XX00US55063

2. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/

3. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr

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