Inova Fairfax Medical Campus Program

The Fairfax Family Medicine Residency Program provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare residents for a successful career in family medicine. Trained since 1972, this program offers a rich blend of clinical exposure and educational opportunities in an evolving healthcare environment.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum at the Fairfax Family Medicine Residency is built on a longitudinal approach, emphasizing learning from experienced family physicians within a practical clinical environment. The first year primarily consists of hospital-based training with block rotations that cover critical areas including general medicine, adult and pediatric emergency medicine, pediatrics, critical care, and obstetrics–gynecology. Additionally, first-year residents engage in three Family Medicine rotations to develop essential office skills.

As residents progress to the second and third years, they spend the majority of their time in the Family Medicine Center, handling a diverse patient panel and integrating hospital care and specialty electives into their schedules to maintain continuity in patient care. This structure facilitates a strong foundation in both inpatient and outpatient healthcare, ensuring that graduates are well prepared for real-world clinical practice.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

The program includes various rotations that allow residents to round out their training. The first year consists of traditional block rotations in different specialties, while the second and third years emphasize ambulatory training. During these years, residents also have elective rotations tailored to their interests, including urology, sports medicine, and geriatrics. The integration of hospital and office-based experiences means residents gain both comprehensive medical knowledge and essential patient management skills.

Concentrations

Fairfax Family Medicine offers concentrations that allow residents to tailor their training to their specific interests. These concentrations include:

• Women's Health: Residents receive focused training in the unique aspects of women's health care, including prenatal care and gynecological procedures.
• Geriatrics: Opportunities include working with elderly patients in various settings, including nursing homes and hospices.
• Global and Community Health: This track emphasizes service to underserved populations and includes opportunities to participate in international health initiatives.
• Sports Medicine: Involves additional training focused on sports-related injuries and treatment, alongside involvement in sporting events.

Each resident can choose electives that align with their career goals and interests, supported by faculty advisors who help guide decisions throughout the training process. This personalized approach builds both competence and confidence in patient care.

Research Opportunities and Scholarly Activity

The program fosters a strong commitment to scholarly activity and research, encouraging residents to engage in various projects related to family medicine. The program provides resources and mentoring necessary for residents to contribute meaningfully to the field through evidence-based research. Participants can present their findings at national conferences, enhancing both their knowledge and professional visibility.

Application Process and Requirements

To apply to the Fairfax Family Medicine Residency, candidates must fulfill specific eligibility requirements. These include:

• Graduating or being in the final year from an accredited medical school within the past four years.
• Passing USMLE Step 1 or COMLEX Step 1 (with no minimum score requirement).
• Providing three letters of recommendation from U.S. physicians.
• Having three months of clinical experience in the United States within the last four years.
• Possessing a valid ECFMG certificate, if applicable.
• Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or permanent residents as the program does not sponsor visas.

Additionally, applications should be submitted via the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS), accompanied by required documentation including a personal statement and a curriculum vitae.

Visa Support

It is important to note that the program does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must possess U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to be eligible for the residency program.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

While the program is competitive, it welcomes applicants from varied backgrounds, including international medical graduates (IMGs), specifically with U.S. clinical experience. Selection assesses multiple qualifications and experiences to identify candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to family medicine and patient care.

Resident Life and Support

The Fairfax Family Medicine program prioritizes resident well-being and aims to foster a collegial, supportive environment. Several wellness activities throughout the year encourage resident interaction and collaboration. The program also provides access to resources that allow residents to manage a work-life balance as they navigate the rigors of residency training.

Compensation and Benefits

The compensation for residents is structured as follows:

• First Year: $72,090
• Second Year: $76,884.73
• Third Year: $80,107.81

Residents receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, malpractice coverage, and educational stipends for conferences and learning resources. Vacation time includes 28 days with additional time allotted for maternity leave, sick days, and bereavement.