The Emergency Medicine/Internal Medicine Residency Program at Hennepin Healthcare offers a unique five-year training pathway that leads residents towards board certification in both emergency medicine and internal medicine. This program is distinctive in the fact that it is housed at a single site at a Level 1 Trauma Center in downtown Minneapolis, allowing residents to immerse themselves fully in both disciplines within a comprehensive academic healthcare system. Initiated in 2006, it stands as one of only eleven combined EM/IM residencies nationwide, merging the structured curricula of the ACGME-recognized Internal Medicine Residency and pioneering Emergency Medicine Residency. This innovative approach facilitates extensive educational opportunities in both fields.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and active participation in patient care, utilizing the latest medical technologies and procedures. Training takes place primarily at Hennepin Healthcare, complemented by select rotations at various esteemed institutions, including the University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital and North Memorial Medical Center. This diverse range of experiences fosters a strong community, equipping residents with comprehensive exposure to the fields of emergency and internal medicine.
In addition to clinical rotations, residents are strongly encouraged to engage in clinical research, with the program providing substantial support through its own research foundation. Throughout their training, residents present findings at both local and national conferences and partake in regularly scheduled joint conferences between the departments of Emergency Medicine and Internal Medicine.
Emergency Medicine/Internal Medicine/Critical Care Pathway
For those interested in further specialization, Hennepin Healthcare offers a six-year combined residency program in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Critical Care Medicine. This pathway enables residents to satisfy the training requirements in all three disciplines. Graduates from this program develop exceptional skills in critical care management, including resuscitative procedures, ventilator management, and advanced hemodynamic monitoring.
Rotation Schedule
The rotation structure is designed to maximize resident learning and engagement. The training begins with an orientation month, leading into three-month immersive rotations in emergency and internal medicine. For example, PGY-1 residents are introduced to inpatient medicine, where they serve as primary providers under supervision while also experiencing emergency medicine shifts. As residents progress into subsequent years, they take on more advanced responsibilities, such as managing patient care teams and performing critical procedures autonomously.
In the PGY-3 year, residents transition into the "pit boss" role within the Emergency Department, allowing them to coordinate operations and supervise junior trainees. Over the course of the residency, residents also engage in numerous electives tailored to individual career interests, including geriatrics, toxicology, and various specialty clinics.
Research Opportunities
Hennepin Healthcare fosters a progressive research environment, encouraging residents to embark on clinical research projects. This includes access to a wealth of resources, such as the Hennepin Healthcare Research Foundation, which facilitates participation in high-quality research and scholarship activities. Faculty members provide guidance and mentorship throughout residents’ research endeavors, adding considerable value to the educational experience.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program prides itself on a collaborative learning environment, with residents working closely alongside fellows, faculty, and specialists from various disciplines. This integration enhances the learning process and promotes a culture of teamwork. Residents are encouraged to take significant leadership roles within the Emergency Department and engage directly in patient care decision-making from the start. Furthermore, the program offers exposure to a diverse case mix and high patient volume, ensuring that residents encounter a broad spectrum of medical conditions and procedures throughout their training.
Application Requirements and Competitiveness
Applicants must provide medical school transcripts, a dean's letter, and letters of recommendation, including at least one Standardized Letter of Evaluation (SLOE). While the program is highly competitive, it is known for being friendly towards both DO and IMG candidates. Potential applicants should note that Hennepin Healthcare requires a minimum board score threshold and preference may be given to candidates who graduated within three years of the current application year.
Furthermore, Hennepin Healthcare sponsors J-1 visas, supporting international applicants who meet specific criteria.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hennepin Healthcare's Emergency Medicine/Internal Medicine Residency is a comprehensive program offering innovative training within a single-site, high-acuity environment. It not only prepares residents for certification but also equips them with the necessary skills to excel in a variety of clinical settings, emphasizing a community-focused approach to patient care.
Website
Director
Travis D Olives, MD, MEd, MPHProgram Director and Poison Center Faculty Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$78,065First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
85.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Minneapolis, MN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Minneapolis, MN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Minneapolis has a moderate crime rate. Certain areas may have higher crime rates, so it's essential to be cautious and choose your neighborhood wisely.
- Fun Activities: Minneapolis offers a wide range of fun activities such as visiting the Chain of Lakes, exploring the Mall of America, enjoying the lively food scene, attending concerts and events, and experiencing the renowned state fair.
- Climate: Minneapolis has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snow during the winter months!
- Races and Population: Minneapolis is a diverse city with a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural landscape.
- Education: Minneapolis is home to several colleges and universities, offering opportunities for continued education and lifelong learning.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Minneapolis is relatively high compared to other cities, especially in terms of housing. However, the salary for residents in the medical field is usually competitive.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Minneapolis is about a 4-hour drive from bigger cities like Chicago, IL, and about a 3-hour drive from Milwaukee, WI. These cities offer diverse cultural experiences, nightlife, and amenities.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and culture scene, beautiful outdoor spaces, diverse population, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Harsh winters, higher cost of living, certain areas with higher crime rates.
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