Harvard School of Public Health Program
Location:
Boston, MASpecialty:
Occupational and environmental medicineACGME Code:
3822477074The Harvard Chan Occupational and Environmental Medicine Residency (OEMR) is a prestigious ACGME-accredited 2-year training program designed for physicians pursuing board eligibility in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, a vital specialty under the umbrella of Preventive Medicine. The program stands out nationally and internationally, providing rigorous training with an emphasis on clinical excellence and groundbreaking research opportunities in the field.
The Harvard Chan OEMR has a rich history, being among the first of its kind in the United States, and it continues to uphold its reputation as one of the leading residencies in Occupational and Environmental Medicine worldwide.1
Curriculum and Structure
The residency program has been structured into two distinct pathways that lead to board certification in Occupational Medicine: the Categorical Program and the Complementary Pathway.
Categorical Program
The Categorical Program spans two years and is designed for those who have completed a transitional internship or clinical residency. The first year of this residency consists of intensive didactic coursework that leads to a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, specifically focused on occupational and environmental health. This engagement typically takes place over two semesters, wherein residents simultaneously participate in clinical activities.2
Complementary Pathway
This pathway is tailored for candidates who already possess board certifications in other medical specialties and have accrued a minimum of two years of relevant career experience in Occupational and Environmental Medicine. It offers a year of training focused on clinical practice and professional development tailored to their prior experience.
Training and Rotations
During the residency, clinical and administrative rotations provide hands-on experiences across various healthcare settings.
Noteworthy rotation sites include:
- Cambridge Health Alliance Occupational and Environmental Health Network
- Veterans Administration-Boston Health Care
- Tufts Medical Center
- Traveler's Health Clinic at MIT
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health
Elective rotations can be sought from agencies like NIOSH and OSHA, further enriching the training experience.3
Research Opportunities
Research is an integral part of the residency, with responsibilities for developing a project of publishable quality during the second year. Residents engage actively in conferences and seminars, and they are encouraged to contribute to the body of literature within the field. The program boasts numerous awards in research, indicating a strong tradition of scholarly excellence.4
Unique Program Aspects
The Harvard OEMR focuses on unique initiatives such as the Initiative for Productivity and Health Management (IPHM), which aims to optimize workforce health for mutual benefits of employees and employers. Additionally, the program fosters a collaborative environment connecting residents to leading experts in occupational health through conferences and seminars.5
Application Process
Eligibility for the program is contingent upon holding an MD or DO degree from an accredited institution and having completed at least one year of accredited clinical internship. The application process entails submitting documents directly to the OEMR which includes a current CV and official USMLE transcripts. The Harvard OEMR does not utilize the Universal ERAS application service, but rather a specific SOPHAS application.6
Visa Support
For international medical graduates, the program provides support for obtaining visas including J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorships, facilitating opportunities for non-U.S. graduates to participate in the residency program.7
Competitiveness
The residency is highly competitive, especially for U.S. graduates, but it is also described as friendly toward DO and international medical graduates (IMGs). The selection process strives to uphold equitable standards, looking for outstanding candidates regardless of their background.8
Special Application Requirements
Notable application stipulations include expectations for applicants to demonstrate successful completion of a full clinical year of internship or its equivalent in a residency program, alongside the submission of exam scores from either MCAT or GRE, depending on their prior academic paths.9
Website
Director
Stefanos N Kales, MD, MPHDirector, Occupational and Environmental Medicine Residency Appointed Since July 2006Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$65,852First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
8Location
Boston, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Boston, MA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Boston has a relatively higher crime rate compared to some other cities in the U.S., especially in certain neighborhoods. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Boston is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Residents can enjoy visiting historical sites, museums, theaters, parks, and various festivals throughout the year.
- Climate: Boston experiences all four seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Be prepared for snowfall in the winter and humidity in the summer.
- Races and Population: Boston is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures among its population. Residents can experience a lively multicultural atmosphere.
- Education: Boston is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Harvard University and MIT. Residents have access to top-notch educational opportunities.
- Cost of Living: Boston is known for its relatively high cost of living, especially when it comes to housing and healthcare. It's advisable to budget carefully to manage expenses.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Boston is located approximately 4 hours drive from New York City. New York City offers a different urban experience with its own cultural attractions, dining scene, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Rich history, cultural diversity, top educational institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: High cost of living, higher crime rate in certain areas.
Interview Questions
