Residency Advisor
Lake Charles, LA

Specialty:

Family medicine

ACGME Code:

1202121594

NRMP Program Code:

1278120C0
YOG 3STEP 215DO FriendlyIMG FriendlyJ1

The Family Medicine Residency Program at Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Lake Charles is designed to provide comprehensive training in a community-based environment. Established in 1995, this program has earned its full accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The program's mission focuses on delivering high-quality medical education through patient care and advancing residents' ability to provide comprehensive, continuous care for families.

Training involves three years of rigorous study in essential medical areas, including internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, and emergency medicine. Residents not only learn the fundamental aspects of family medicine but also engage in hands-on training under the guidance of Family Medicine Physician faculty and Subspecialty Physicians at Lake Charles Memorial Health System and affiliated outpatient clinics 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured around a 13-block schedule, which includes longitudinal experiences that encompass outpatient pediatrics, geriatrics, musculoskeletal medicine, minor procedures, and practice management. Such a structure is essential to ensure that residents master the skills necessary to practice family medicine effectively in diverse environments, particularly in underserved communities 8.

Moreover, residents participate in a hospitalist service, admitting unassigned and uninsured patients through the emergency department, further solidifying their understanding of the healthcare landscape and the socio-economic factors influencing patient care 1.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages research engagements, emphasizing the significance of data-driven practices in enhancing healthcare delivery and effectiveness. Residents are often involved in community-based research initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities in the Lake Charles area and beyond, which serves to reinforce their grounding in population health 5.

Visa Support

The Family Medicine Residency at Lake Charles supports international medical graduates by sponsoring J-1 visas through ECFMG. This enables eligible candidates, including graduates from outside the United States, to participate in the program while fulfilling the residency requirements 7.

Application Requirements

Applications can be submitted using the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). A comprehensive application should include a personal statement, medical school transcripts, a Dean's letter, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, applicants need to meet specific criteria: they should be US citizens, legal permanent residents, or eligible for a J-1 visa. Applicants must also have graduated from medical school within three years to ensure their clinical knowledge remains current. The program has set minimum scores for USMLE (Step 1: 210; Step 2 CK: 215) and COMLEX exams, and candidates are required to pass the clinical skills exam on the first attempt 10.

Competitive Landscape

The program is regarded as competitive yet remains accessible to osteopathic and international medical graduates. The holistic review of applicants, based on their backgrounds, experiences, and personal attributes, contributes to the program's commitment to diversity and inclusion 5.

Benefits and Well-Being

The Family Medicine Residency at Lake Charles offers an attractive salary and benefits package that includes various wellness initiatives tailored to support resident well-being. Recognizing the high levels of stress encountered in medical training, the program organizes regular social events and provides access to counseling and mental health resources. These include events such as community engagement activities and retreats to enhance camaraderie among residents 9.

Diversity and Community Engagement

LSUHSC is dedicated to fostering a culture that embraces diversity and actively promotes community engagement. This commitment is reflected in its recruitment strategies and the training experiences offered to residents, which cultivate cultural competency in clinical practice. The program provides opportunities to engage with diverse patient populations, aligning with its mission to address healthcare inequities 6.

Website

overview

Is Louisiana State University School of Medicine (Lake Charles) Program the Right Fit for You?

Get insights on how well this program aligns with your profile.

Finding the right residency program can be overwhelming—but SmartPick makes it easier. Our AI-driven tool evaluates your scores, experiences, and preferences to show how well this program matches your profile. Want to explore even stronger matches? SmartPick helps you confidently apply to programs where you’re more likely to succeed.

My Notes

You can write notes and rank programs privately for yourself. Then you can compare
them.
Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

7, 7, 7 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since January 1996

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

56 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

24 hours

First Year Salary:

$58,974

First Year Paid Vacation:

10 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

5 days

Training

Fellowship Rate:
8%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
0.3X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:
215
Visa Sponsorship:
J1
YOG Cutoff:
3

Match History

Track: 1278120C0

2024

4 of 7

2023

4 of 4

2022

6 of 7

2021

6 of 6

2020

3 of 7
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Lake Charles, LA

Population
84,872
Income
$55,420
Education
36.6%
Employment
59.3%
Health
6.3%
Age
37
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Lake Charles, LA

Lake Charles is a city located in Southwest Louisiana, known for its vibrant culture and outdoor activities. Here's a breakdown of what living in Lake Charles looks like

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    Lake Charles has a moderate crime rate, with efforts to improve safety. It's recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in certain areas.
  • Fun Activities
    Lake Charles offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The city is also known for its vibrant music and culinary scene.
  • Climate
    Lake Charles has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels during the summer.
  • Races and Population
    Lake Charles is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures, contributing to a rich tapestry of community life.
  • Education
    Lake Charles has several educational institutions, including McNeese State University, offering opportunities for higher education.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Lake Charles is relatively low compared to national averages, with affordable housing options available.
  • Proximity to Nearby Cities
    New Orleans, a major city known for its vibrant culture, is approximately 3 hours away from Lake Charles by car.
  • Pros
    Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural experiences, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Cons
    Moderate crime rate in some areas, high humidity levels during the summer.

Interview Questions

Comments

overview

Ready to Find Your Ideal Residency Program?

With SmartPick, you can discover programs that align with your unique profile and preferences. Our AI-driven algorithm ensures that every application counts, maximizing your chances of matching.

Help Me Choose Programs

Other Specialties Near Lake Charles, LA

References