Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation Program

The Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation Program in Internal Medicine represents a robust opportunity for aspiring internists and hospitalists looking to advance their medical careers. The program is designed to provide residents with a comprehensive educational experience that fosters both independence and a collaborative environment.

Program Overview

Residents will benefit from a progressive curriculum emphasizing autonomy, evidence-based practice, and a multidisciplinary approach. Educational goals encompass preparing residents for board examinations through an ingenious balance of formal teaching conferences and hands-on clinical practice. The Internal Medicine Residency Program is highly regarded for its emphasis on wellness, ensuring that physicians in training prioritize self-care while pursuing their medical education 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured around 13 four-week rotations each year, adhering to the X + Y + Z rotation framework. This involves a combination of inpatient medicine, elective subspecialty rotations, and continuity clinics designed to provide consistent patient care experiences. Notably, the program's design ensures that no overnight call is required during rotations, aligning with ACGME 80-hour workweek guidelines to prevent burnout and promote resident well-being 3.

Throughout their training, residents will engage in core rotations, which include critical areas such as General Medicine Wards, Cardiology, and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), allowing for a broad spectrum of patient care experiences 3. Advanced training in sub-specialties is available in areas including Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, and Infectious Disease among others, providing ample opportunities for individualized learning.

Procedures and Critical Care Training

Hands-on training in essential procedures is emphasized, including central venous and arterial line placements, intubation, and thoracentesis, with opportunities to practice in both simulation environments and actual patient cases 4. The ICU experience is comprehensive, providing training in managing critically ill patients with various medical issues, an essential foundation for residents interested in pursuing fellowship opportunities in critical care 5.

Educational Opportunities and Resources

The program enjoys a reputation for granting residents autonomy while simultaneously providing essential supervision and mentorship. Faculty invest time in fostering educational growth, holding daily formal teaching conferences and individualized learning sessions 2. Additionally, residents receive support for board exam preparation, utilizing subscriptions to resources like NEJM Knowledge+ alongside weekly board review classes, enhancing their readiness for certification 5.

Research and Fellowship Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research during their training, supported by a dedicated team that includes biostatisticians and media specialists. About 30-40% of graduates transition to fellowship programs at prestigious institutions, underscoring the program’s strong academic foundation 6. Opportunities for presentations at state and national meetings further bolster the residents' professional portfolios.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The Gundersen Internal Medicine Residency program is competitive and seeks applicants who have passed USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 on their first attempts. Candidates who graduated from medical school within the past two years are preferred. The program also welcomes international medical graduates who possess ECFMG certification upon starting their residency 2. Visa sponsorship is available for H1 and J1 visas, with the program being exempt from the H1 cap, which broadens the program's accessibility for qualified international candidates.

Community and Lifestyle

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