In His Image at St John Medical Center Program

The In His Image Family Medicine Residency Program at St. John Medical Center provides a community-based, accredited training environment in family medicine. This program has consistently demonstrated success, with all graduates passing the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) exams on their first attempt for over five years.

The primary teaching site for the program is St. John Medical Center, a well-equipped tertiary referral hospital located in Tulsa, featuring 495 licensed beds. Additionally, residents gain experience in pediatric inpatient care at St. Francis Children's Hospital during a two-month rotation in their first year.

Training Focus and Clinical Experience

The program offers a comprehensive training curriculum with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience. Residents participate in the family medicine inpatient service, which operates under the supervision of attending physicians. This service includes the management of diverse patient populations, providing care for obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, and a variety of adult medical issues. With a payer mix that prioritizes underserved populations—83% Medicaid/Medicare, 15% private insurance, and 2% other—the residency facilitates exposure to a broad cross-section of cases and cultural backgrounds, including significant representation of Asian, White, African American, and Hispanic populations.

Curriculum Overview

The residency is structured over three years (PGY 1-3) with a robust curriculum including rotations in:

• Adult Medicine Inpatient
• Obstetrics
• Pediatrics
• Emergency Medicine
• Community Medicine
• General Surgery
• Ambulatory Clinic

Residents in the later years engage in advanced training tracks and various elective opportunities, allowing them to tailor their education towards specific interests. Tracks of emphasis are available, and residents can complete up to four during their tenure, earning formal recognition upon graduation for each track completed.

Research and Outreach

The program also focuses on outreach through its partnership with Good Samaritan Health Services (GSHS). Residents actively participate in community service, delivering free healthcare to underserved populations using mobile medical units. This outreach effort allows residents to provide high-quality healthcare while incorporating values of compassion and service.

An international outreach program is also encouraged, allowing residents to complete international health rotations as part of their residency requirements, with up to four months available for these experiences. Support for trip coordination and funding is provided via In His Image International (IHII).

Resident Support and Wellness

In His Image prides itself on a comprehensive resident support system, which is echoed in resident feedback emphasizing the strength of this community. Monthly devotions, mentorship programs, and various group activities are built into the residency experience to foster both personal and professional growth.

Each resident receives several benefits, including occurrence malpractice insurance, term life insurance, and a group HMO health policy with small employee contributions. A technology allowance of $2,250, professional dues coverage, and a food allowance during hospital rotations are notable features of the compensation package.

A strong emphasis is also placed on work-life balance with flexible scheduling and support for family commitments. Residents have access to spiritual support activities, retreats, and multiple avenues for integration of personal faith into medical practice.

Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements

The program supports international medical graduates and can sponsor visas for residency application processes. It is designed to be friendly to both DOs and IMGs, creating an inclusive environment for diverse backgrounds. Special application requirements may include considerations for year of graduation and limitations on the number of failed STEP examinations.