Jul 1, 2006
Louisiana State University School of Medicine Program
Overview
Program Overview
The Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program at Louisiana State University Health Shreveport is designed to produce competent and compassionate physicians capable of serving patients from infancy to geriatrics. This program, often referred to as Med-Peds, provides a comprehensive four-year training that culminates in Board Certification in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. The curriculum emphasizes both clinical exposure and didactic education to develop residents' skills in patient care.
7Since its inception in 1992, the program has cultivated a supportive learning environment, fostering both professional and personal growth. It combines a thorough educational foundation with an emphasis on resident well-being, creating a community where residents are supported by both faculty and peers.
9Curriculum Structure
The residency curriculum encompasses a mix of clinical rotations across various settings, including Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, the primary training site, and St. Mary Medical Center, where pediatric and internal medicine services are offered. Residents engage in a variety of essential competencies through experiential learning, encouraging autonomy along with direct supervision. The program prioritizes a balance between inpatient and outpatient care, allowing residents to manage a broad spectrum of medical conditions.
8Additional opportunities for exposure in specialized areas, such as infectious diseases, cardiology, and critical care, equip residents with the necessary skills for any career path they may choose, whether it be primary care, hospitalist roles, or subspecialty fellowships.
11Clinical Rotations
The program's clinical training primarily occurs at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, a major teaching hospital with over 7,000 annual admissions and a robust outpatient clinic structure supporting various specialties. Residents frequently participate in rotations at St. Mary Medical Center, focusing on pediatric care, as well as the Overton-Brooks Veterans Administration Medical Center for adult medicine experiences.
10Rotations divide into dedicated blocks that allow for immersion in specific areas of practice, including internal medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, and numerous electives. Furthermore, interns and residents engage in night float and on-call responsibilities that promote comprehensive patient management experiences.
12Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to participate in research projects, community service, and quality improvement initiatives, which contribute significantly to their education. Residents collaborate in small groups on annual Quality Improvement (QI) projects that are presented at academic conferences, allowing them to engage with the broader medical community.
13Additionally, opportunities for mentorship in research methodologies equip residents with the necessary skills to conduct academic investigations, publish findings, and present at conferences.
14Wellness Support
The program places considerable emphasis on resident wellness, recognizing the importance of mental health during residency training. Monthly wellness events, retreats, and community-building activities enhance camaraderie among residents. Activities include team-building excursions, holiday celebrations, and informal gatherings to foster a healthy work-life balance.
16This culture of support and inclusivity aids in reducing stress and promoting resilience, ensuring that residents can thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
15Research and Global Health Electives
The program provides residents with the opportunity to engage in global health electives and research initiatives. Previous international electives have included service trips focused on both education and primary care delivery in different healthcare systems.
8Involvement in community health projects and direct clinical practice opportunities allow residents to experience diverse patient populations and health challenges that enhance their understanding of healthcare disparities.
13Unique Aspects of the Program
The Med-Peds program at LSU Health Shreveport is unique due to its combined approach to training in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, enabling residents to be proficient in caring for patients of all ages. It is known for its friendly atmosphere, with faculty mentorship being a cornerstone of the educational experience, allowing residents to pursue individualized career paths based on their interests and strengths.
7The integration of the two disciplines provides a rich educational environment, promoting comprehensive care that meets the needs of diverse patient populations.
14Application Requirements
Applicants to the Med-Peds residency must meet specific qualifications, including graduation from an accredited medical school (U.S. or international) and must be ECFMG certified for international medical graduates. While there is no set minimum for USMLE scores, a holistic approach is employed in the review process, also considering prior clinical experience and letters of recommendation.
18The program does have an institutional policy suggesting that applicants should not have graduated from medical school more than 5 years prior to application.
17Visa Sponsorship
For international medical graduates, the program offers support for both J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorships. Applicants must have a valid ECFMG certificate prior to appointment for successful consideration into the program’s residency.
18This policy facilitates the inclusion of a diverse resident class, enriching the training environment.
17Competitiveness and Diversity
The LSU Health Shreveport Med-Peds residency is regarded as an attractive option for both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates. Its commitment to supporting a diverse cohort of residents creates a rich learning environment beneficial for addressing a range of health disparities.
9The program's track record of matching a significant number of US medical graduates reflects its competitiveness and commitment to training future leaders in both internal medicine and pediatrics.
11Salary and Benefits
The residency program ensures that interns receive 15 days of vacation and residents receive 20 days of vacation annually, with an additional 10 sick days. A comprehensive benefits package includes various health insurance coverage options, a meal plan, and malpractice insurance at no cost to residents.
19These elements are structured to support residents throughout their training, allowing them to focus on their education and patient care.
19Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
4, 4, 5, 6 (4 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: January 23, 2026)
Composition [2]
Training
Fellowship Rate:53% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:2X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: 14 days [1]
First Year Paid Vacation: 21 days [1]
First Year Salary: $60,241 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 16 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 56 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: 230–263 [2]
Visa Sponsorship:J1 [2]
YOG Cutoff:--
Race / Ethnicity
Gender
Incoming Schools
10%
Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans
10%
University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine
10%
Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University
5%
More than 1 school has this rank*
* Multiple schools share the same admissions rate.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
Match History [4]
Roster
Location
New Orleans, LA [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing — Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime — All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
Living in New Orleans, LA
New Orleans, LA, promises a vibrant and culturally rich living experience for residents. Here's a breakdown of living in this location:
Crime Rate and Safety
New Orleans has a higher crime rate compared to the national average. While some neighborhoods are safer than others, it's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Fun Activities
Known for its lively music scene, delicious cuisine, and Mardi Gras festivities, New Orleans offers endless entertainment options. Residents can enjoy jazz performances, explore historic French Quarter, and indulge in local Creole and Cajun dishes.
Climate
New Orleans has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels during the summer months.
Races and Population
New Orleans is a diverse city with a mix of various races and cultures, contributing to its unique charm and cultural richness.
Education
New Orleans is home to several higher education institutions, including Tulane University and Loyola University, offering educational opportunities for residents.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in New Orleans is relatively lower compared to other major U.S. cities. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood, with more affordable options available in suburban areas.
Proximity to Bigger Cities
New Orleans is located about 90 miles away from Baton Rouge and 335 miles from Houston, making it fairly accessible by car. Baton Rouge is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, offering a change of scenery and additional amenities.
Cons
- While New Orleans is vibrant and culturally rich
- it's important to be mindful of the higher crime rate in certain areas and the humid climate during the summer months. Residents should explore different neighborhoods to find a suitable living environment that meets their preferences and safety concerns.
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References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/7002114022
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/fc7f1d79-4388-04dc-4351-58c4bf526d59
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=160XX00US2255000
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr