The Family Medicine Residency Program at HCA Healthcare/Mercer University School of Medicine offers a robust curriculum designed to provide comprehensive training in family medicine, preparing residents for diverse medical practices. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to the healthcare needs of families in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The curriculum is structured around core competencies and includes comprehensive training in various specialties. Residents participate in a variety of rotations that encompass inpatient care, outpatient clinics, emergency medicine, and specialized areas such as pediatrics, obstetrics, and geriatrics. This exposure ensures that residents gain a wide breadth of experience, meeting the needs of the communities they will serve.1
Rotations
The program includes rotations in key areas such as:
- Internal Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Behavioral Health
Each rotation is designed to build clinical skills, foster critical thinking, and enhance patient care delivery. 2
Training Sites
Training takes place at the Summerville Medical Center, which is equipped with up-to-date technology and resources, ensuring residents have the necessary support to train effectively. The Medical Center hosts various specialty services, enhancing the residency experience for optimal learning outcomes.3
Research Opportunities
The program fosters a culture of inquiry and research, encouraging residents to participate in studies that enhance clinical practice. Residents are expected to engage in research projects, which not only contribute to the field of family medicine but also help enhance the educational experience.4
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Family Medicine Residency Program at HCA Healthcare embraces a patient-centered philosophy while fostering a collaborative environment. Unique aspects include:
- A comprehensive approach to family medicine involving both ambulatory and inpatient care
- Access to a diverse patient population
- Dedicated faculty and mentors who guide residents throughout their training
- Community involvement and outreach programs designed to meet local healthcare needs
These features build a strong foundation for residents, preparing them to address the challenges of primary care.5
Visa Support
The program is dedicated to supporting international medical graduates through the residency application process. It offers sponsorship for J-1 visas, which are commonly utilized by international medical graduates pursuing residency training in the United States.6
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The program is considered highly competitive, attracting applications from both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). Specific application requirements may include:
- A maximum of two failed U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step attempts
- Year of graduation considered for applicants to ensure currency of knowledge
These criteria help streamline the selection process, ensuring a cohort of residents equipped for the rigors of family medicine training.7
Conclusion
The Family Medicine Residency Program at HCA Healthcare/Mercer University School of Medicine is dedicated to developing the next generation of family medicine physicians through extensive training, research opportunities, and support services. With a commitment to community health and comprehensive medical education, the program prepares residents to meet the diverse healthcare needs of patients from all walks of life.
Website
Director
Pooja A Paunikar, MD, MPHProgram Director and Site Director for Sites 1 & 3 Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$61,686First Year Paid Vacation:
28 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
226Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
5Match History
2329120C0
2024
6 of 62023
0 of 6Location
Summerville, SC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Summerville, SC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Summerville is generally considered a safe place to live with a below-average crime rate. The community also has an active neighborhood watch program.
- Fun Activities: Summerville is known for its historic downtown area, azalea gardens, and annual Flowertown Festival. Outdoor activities like boating and fishing are popular due to the nearby rivers and lakes.
- Climate: Summerville has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. It experiences occasional thunderstorms and hurricanes due to its proximity to the coast.
- Races and Population: Summerville is a diverse community with a mix of races and a growing population.
- Education: The area has good public and private schools, making it suitable for families with children. There are also higher education institutions nearby.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Summerville is moderate, with affordable housing options compared to larger cities.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Summerville is located about 25 miles from Charleston, SC, which offers a more urban experience with beaches, shopping, and a vibrant nightlife.
- Pros: Safe community, diverse activities, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Summers can be hot and humid, occasional extreme weather events.
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