Residency Advisor

The Hawaii Island Family Medicine Residency, operated by Hilo Benioff Medical Center, focuses on developing culturally-responsive family physicians who are equipped to address the unique healthcare needs of the community on Hawaii Island. The program is designed to enhance access to medical care in a region where physician shortages have historically impacted service availability. Through comprehensive training and mentorship, the program aims to cultivate a new generation of physicians specifically focused on patient-centered care and community health improvement.

Residents are provided with a robust curriculum that emphasizes interdisciplinary teamwork. This approach integrates the roles of doctors, advanced practice nurses, clinical pharmacists, and health psychologists, ensuring that patient care is comprehensive and coordinated. Residents typically participate in rotations that cover a diverse range of medical specialties, enhancing their medical expertise and practical skills essential for family medicine. Additionally, the program is committed to employing innovative healthcare practices that foster better patient outcomes and satisfaction within the community.

Training Experience

The residency offers various training sites, predominantly encompassing the Hilo Medical Center and affiliated clinics. The Hilo Medical Center operates as a Level III Trauma Center and features a significant volume of emergency care, allowing residents to gain vital experience in acute patient care scenarios. Annually, the Center serves over 55,000 patients in its emergency department alone.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to provide residents with experiences that cover the breadth of family medicine. Key components include inpatient medicine, outpatient care, pediatrics, obstetrics, geriatrics, and emergency medicine. The hands-on training allows residents to develop the competencies required for comprehensive family practice, preparing them for independent practice following completion of the program.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes the importance of research in advancing medical practice. Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects that relate to community health issues, thereby contributing to the larger body of knowledge in family medicine. Collaborative efforts with faculty and local health organizations foster a rich environment for discovering innovative solutions to health challenges within the community.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One notable aspect of the Hawaii Island Family Medicine Residency is its dedication to serving a diverse population, which includes a range of cultural backgrounds. This diversity enhances the residents' learning experience by exposing them to various health beliefs and practices, allowing them to become more effective and empathetic providers.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to pursue residency training in the United States. The types of visas that can be supported include J-1 and H-1B visas, which facilitate participation in the residency program. While competitive, the program strives to be friendly towards DO applicants and IMGs, making it an accessible option for a diverse range of applicants.

Application Requirements

Applicants to the residency program should be aware of specific requirements, including whether there are any limits on years since graduation from medical school or maximum allowable failed STEP exams. The program is dedicated to selecting candidates who show promise and are aligned with its mission of community health improvement.

Community Engagement and Lifestyle

The residency is deeply embedded within the Hilo community, which encompasses a vibrant culture and natural beauty. Residents can expect a fulfilling lifestyle that balances rigorous academic training with the joys of living in Hawaii, characterized by tropical weather, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a welcoming local population.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

6, 6, 6 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2014

Composition

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

54hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

24hrs

First Year Salary:

$70,000

First Year Paid Vacation:

35 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

5 days

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

0.4X

Residents career path:

Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

209

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

2

Match History

1691120C0

2024

4 of 6

2023

4 of 4

2022

6 of 6

2021

6 of 6

2020

6 of 6

Location

Hilo, HI 96720

Population
44,186
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
41

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Hilo, HI

Hilo, Hawaii, offers a unique living experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Big Island. Here are some aspects to consider:

  • Climate: Hilo has a tropical rainforest climate with consistent rainfall throughout the year and warm temperatures.
  • Population: Hilo has a diverse population with a mix of Hawaiian, Asian, and mainland U.S. residents.
  • Crime Rate and Safety: Hilo is generally a safe community, but like any place, it's important to be aware of surroundings and take precautions.
  • Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, exploring waterfalls, visiting volcanoes, and relaxing on the beach.
  • Education: Hilo is home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, offering educational opportunities for residents.
  • Cost of Living: Hawaii has a higher cost of living compared to many mainland locations, so residents should budget accordingly.

Pros and Cons:
  • Pros: Stunning natural scenery, diverse cultural experiences, unique island lifestyle.
  • Cons: Higher cost of living, isolated location, limited access to larger cities.

Nearby Cities:
  • Honolulu: Approximately a 3.5-hour drive (around 200 miles), offering a bustling city experience with diverse amenities.
  • Kailua-Kona: About a 2-hour drive (around 100 miles), known for its sunny weather and resorts.

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