Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Program

The Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program is a comprehensive four-year training program, designed to equip residents with the skills and knowledge required for proficiency in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. The program aims to serve communities in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, renowned for being among the most medically underserved areas in the United States. The collective expertise of the program's faculty promotes a collaborative learning environment where residents thrive professionally and personally 1.

Program Structure

The residency consists of a total of 16 residents, with four new residents accepted each year. The training curriculum is structured with block rotations alternating every four months between Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. This arrangement ensures that residents gain extensive experience across all core disciplines as well as subspecialties in both fields 6. The Loma Linda curriculum adheres to guidelines established by the American Boards of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, ensuring rigorous training that prepares residents for board eligibility in both specialties upon completion 6.

Training Sites

Residents train at multiple distinguished facilities which foster a rich educational experience. Key locations include:

• Loma Linda University Medical Center: A tertiary-care hospital with over 48,000 annual admissions and a robust outpatient visit count of over 1,000,000.
• Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital: The only children's hospital in the region with 275 beds and significant annual admissions.
• Riverside University Health System: An academic center that has served Riverside County for over a century, offering comprehensive care.
• SAC Health: A federally qualified health center providing access to health care for underserved populations.
• VA Loma Linda Healthcare System: Serving veterans with recognized excellence in service.

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Curriculum and Educational Opportunities

The curriculum includes diverse clinical training with a focus on acquiring competencies necessary for supervising other physicians. It exposes residents to both adult and pediatric populations across various clinical settings. Furthermore, residents can engage in research activities focusing on quality improvement (QI), contributing to their professional development 8.

Education Concentrations

The program offers voluntary Education Concentrations in areas like Global Service, Health Disparities, Education and Teaching, and Lifestyle Medicine, allowing residents to deepen their expertise 8.

Support and Wellness

Loma Linda values the wellness of its residents, establishing support structures that include a Wellness Committee, a dedicated Chief Wellness Resident, and multiple avenues for personal growth, including concierge services for medical appointments and support groups 10. Initiatives aimed at promoting resident well-being are central to fostering a resilient and balanced lifestyle amidst the demanding nature of medical training.

Application Process and Competitiveness

Application to the program requires the completion of the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and submission of necessary documents including USMLE scores, medical school transcripts, and recommendation letters. The program is competitive, welcoming both DO and IMG applicants without imposing minimum score requirements 8.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports visa sponsorship for international graduates under certain conditions, including eligibility for J-1 visas sponsored by ECFMG 9. The necessity of a valid work permit before the position's acceptance is emphasized, ensuring that all applicants understand the visa requirements directly related to their training.

Stipends and Benefits

Residents in the program receive highly competitive stipends including additional allowances for housing and meals. A comprehensive medical and dental insurance plan is provided at minimal cost. Paid time off policies allow residents to utilize up to 240 hours for personal well-being in addition to nine paid holidays annually 11. Various other benefits, such as educational reimbursements and family leave, further enhance the residency experience.

The overall structure of the Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program provides residents with an enriching experience, emphasizing comprehensive training, wellness, accessibility, and leadership in underserved communities.