Madigan Army Medical Center Program
Location:
Tacoma, WASpecialty:
Clinical informatics (Family medicine)ACGME Code:
1225412001The Clinical Informatics Fellowship at Madigan Army Medical Center offers a comprehensive training program in the field of Clinical Informatics. It is a unique program, being the only one of its kind within the Department of Defense, aimed at preparing fellows for leadership roles within the Defense Health Agency and associated Services.
Program Overview
This fellowship is a 2-year program, fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) that allows individuals to pursue advanced educational opportunities while working in a military medical setting. The program accepts a total of six fellows, with three positions available annually, which includes slots for Army, Air Force, and Navy candidates. The fellowship does not require a categorical year in any specialty, making it accessible to a wider range of applicants who have completed medical school and are board eligible or board certified in eligible specialties.
1Curriculum and Training
The fellowship curriculum provides didactic training twice a week, with the scheduling tailored according to the master's program the fellows may choose to pursue concurrently. There is no call requirement, although specifics may vary based on individual agreements with the supporting department. Fellows will participate in various educational sessions at the Anderson Simulation Center located within Madigan Army Medical Center, which enhances practical learning experiences.
1Research and Publication
Fellows are encouraged to engage in research activities during their training, with a focus on improving medical care throughout the enterprise. Graduates are eligible to take the American Board of Preventive Medicine or the American Board of Pathology Clinical Informatics Board Examination, which are offered annually. Such accreditation signifies the fellow's competence in this specialized area of medicine.
1Training Locations
This program is exclusively conducted at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. The facility provides fellows with ample opportunities to immerse themselves in various aspects of clinical informatics while working closely with experienced faculty.
1Special Features
The fellowship program offers several special features, such as the ability to concurrently pursue a Master's degree. This effectively broadens the knowledge base of the fellows while they receive practical training. Furthermore, fellows will have teaching opportunities by working with residency departments, participating in leadership summits, and presenting research findings at conferences.
1Competitive Nature
The Clinical Informatics Fellowship is competitive, appealing to both military personnel and civilians with a strong background in medicine. The scoring for interview candidates is based on medical school performance, residency evaluations, military assignments, and research publications, making it essential for applicants to have a robust application.
1Visa Sponsorship
For international medical graduates interested in applying to this program, visa sponsorship is available. The program supports J-1 and H-1B visa types, essential for non-US citizens wishing to reside in the United States during their educational training.
1Well-Being Initiatives
The fellowship promotes the well-being of active duty military fellows by providing access to various support programs, including on-base childcare, educational opportunities, and recreational activities. Additional facilities such as gyms and outdoor activities available at Joint Base Lewis-McChord enhance the quality of life and foster a healthy work-life balance.
1Website
Director
Scott T Hulse, MD, BS, MPH, MSProgram Director Appointed Since August 2024Coordinator
Program
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Admission
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-Location
Tacoma, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Tacoma, WA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Tacoma has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, but the downtown area has seen improvements in recent years. It's advisable to pay attention to your surroundings, especially at night.
- Fun Activities: Tacoma offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports. The city is also home to museums, art galleries, and theaters. Nearby Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Climate: Tacoma has a mild climate with wet winters and dry summers. Expect some rain throughout the year, but temperatures are relatively moderate.
- Races and Population: Tacoma is a diverse city with a population that includes Caucasians, Hispanic/Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans.
- Education: Tacoma is home to the University of Washington Tacoma campus and several other higher education institutions. The city values education, and there are opportunities for both learning and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tacoma is relatively lower than Seattle, but housing costs have been rising in recent years. It's still more affordable than many other major cities on the West Coast.
- Nearest Bigger Cities: Seattle is about 30 miles north of Tacoma, and the driving time can vary depending on traffic but typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Seattle offers a bigger city experience with more job opportunities, cultural events, and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, proximity to outdoor activities, diverse population, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate, potential for rainy weather, rising housing costs.
Interview Questions
