MaineHealth Program

The MaineHealth Maine Medical Center integrated Internal Medicine Geriatrics Residency and Fellowship program is a distinguished, four-year ACGME-approved program specifically designed for those interested in the dual focus of internal medicine and geriatrics. This program represents a pioneering effort, being one of the first in the nation and the only one emphasizing rural geriatric primary care medicine.

The program is structured to provide insight into both inpatient care at Maine's largest tertiary teaching hospital and the statewide network of rural health providers, leveraging collaborations with VA Maine and the MaineHealth system. This exposure is integral in shaping competent internists and geriatricians capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care tailored to the unique challenges faced in rural, underserved populations 1.

Program Structure

The training curriculum integrates geriatric medicine experiences throughout all four years, allowing for early exposure and continuous mentorship. Although this does not shorten the total training duration, it offers flexibility for residents to customize their educational experience towards the conclusion of their training.

Residents are eligible for board certification in internal medicine at the end of the third year and in geriatric medicine following completion of the program, which enriches their professional credentials and expertise 1.

Goals and Objectives

The program aims to cultivate skilled general internists and geriatricians who are prepared to:

• Provide high-quality care in rural and resource-poor settings.
• Recognize and mitigate health disparities affecting older adults.
• Engage in interprofessional collaborative training while receiving mentoring and career guidance in geriatrics.

Educational Partners

Some key associations that enhance the educational experience include:

• MaineHealth Maine Medical Center
• VA Maine Healthcare System
• MaineHealth Geriatric Medicine
• New England Rehabilitation Hospital
• MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital

These partnerships provide a well-rounded clinical experience, emphasizing various facets of geriatrics and internal medicine 1.

Application Requirements

Prospective applicants must apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Candidates need to submit:

• A Dean’s letter
• Medical school transcripts
• Transcripts for USMLE or COMLEX with a minimum score of 199
• Certification by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) for international graduates
• Two letters of recommendation from attending physicians in a clinical U.S. teaching hospital

The program sponsors only J-1 visas, with eligibility existing for those who graduated from medical school within the past five years. Interviews are conducted on an invitation-only basis based on application evaluations 2.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum embraces a “4+2” block scheduling format in the first three years, complemented by continuity clinic experiences and rotation in rural medicine. This is designed to promote both hands-on clinical skills and the provision of geriatric care within the local healthcare systems. The structure encourages a focus on quality improvement initiatives and emphasizes the importance of scholarly activity.

The curriculum includes:

• Continuous primary care continuity clinic at the VA Portland Maine CBOC
• Longitudinal nursing home experiences
• Dedicated geriatrics didactic sessions with access to interprofessional conferences

Rural Experiences

Each year, residents will engage in rotations within rural settings, focusing on the unique delivery of geriatric services in smaller communities, which is a critical component of their training 3.

Resident Experience

The MaineHealth Maine Medical Center fosters a culture of support and engagement among residents. The learning environment is enriched by mentorship from senior residents and faculty members who emphasize personalized education tailored to individual career aspirations. Residents have the opportunity to participate in various local and national conferences, enhancing their understanding of contemporary issues in geriatric medicine 4.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The program is competitive and recognizes the importance of inclusivity. It welcomes applications from International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and DO graduates, contributing towards a diverse cohort of residents. This diversity is an integral part of fostering an inclusive learning environment, which is further emphasized by the program's commitment to ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives 1.

Well-being Support

MaineHealth is committed to the well-being of its residents, ensuring resources are available for personal wellness throughout training. This focus on mental health and work-life balance is crucial in fostering an effective learning environment where residents can thrive.