Marshfield Clinic Program

The Marshfield Clinic Dermatology Residency aims to train competent dermatologists through a comprehensive program that focuses on both educational and practical experience. By providing varied, broad, and systematic exposure to dermatological care, the program prepares residents to deliver specialized care to patients with conditions affecting the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. The residency is structured as a four-year categorical program, newly approved as of 2024, which includes a transitional internship integrated into the ACGME-accredited Internal Medicine, Combined Medicine-Pediatrics, Pediatrics, and General Surgery residency training programs at Marshfield Clinic Medical Center.

Residents will participate in a robust curriculum designed to cater to diverse learning preferences, utilizing a combination of traditional lectures, discussions, independent readings, quizzes, and interactive learning methodologies such as problem-based learning and team-based learning. The program prioritizes strong clinical mentorship, critical thinking, and exposure to a diverse range of skin-related diseases across varied patient populations. For over 60 years, this program has been committed to resident education, producing highly skilled dermatologists.

The training model consists of core rotations during the internship year, including inpatient wards, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and a rotation through dermatology that encompasses outpatient clinics and dermatopathology. Following the internship, residents advance into a three-year dermatology residency, encompassing specialized training in dermatological surgeries, dermatopathology, and research. The total number of residents is limited to eight to ensure a high-quality educational experience.

Application Criteria

The Marshfield Clinic Dermatology Residency accepts applications exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Key application components include a minimum of two letters of recommendation, preferably from dermatologists, a Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) letter, and a personal statement. Notably, the program does not impose a minimum board score cut-off; all applicants are reviewed holistically.

Applying candidates are encouraged if they have roots in rural communities or strong ties to Wisconsin. The residency program invites approximately 30 candidates for interviews, typically ranking about 24 candidates for two available positions. A pre-interview social hour is included for candidates to engage with current residents.

Visa Support

The residency program sponsors H1B visas, facilitating international medical graduates' participation. This support enables qualified candidates from varied backgrounds to apply, including those who may have previously trained in different specialties or have international medical training.

Benefits

Residents enjoy a competitive salary and an array of benefits, including relocation assistance, malpractice coverage, and an annual travel/education fund of $1,750 available from the first year of residency. The salary structure for 2025-2026 ranges from $68,964 in PGY1 to $82,583 in PGY4, reflecting the program's commitment to fair compensation.

Additional benefits include comprehensive health and dental insurance for residents and their dependents, 15 vacation days per year, a short and long-term disability plan, and allowances for CME and job interviews. The program also supports professional development through a well-being committee and dedicated personal wellness time.

Education and Training

The education structure of the Marshfield Clinic Dermatology Residency incorporates a variety of rotations and extensive academic opportunities. The initial intern year consists of rotations across various medical fields, followed by focused dermatological training in subsequent years. Throughout the residency, there is an emphasis on research, with expectations for residents to conduct a scholarly project, ensuring a balance of clinical and academic rigor.

Conferences and didactic sessions are a staple of the training program, with over 10 hours of protected academic time weekly. Residents also gain valuable experience through structured evaluation processes, consisting of both formative and summative assessments aimed at optimizing training and professional growth.

Evaluation Process

Continuous evaluation is an integral part of the residency experience at Marshfield Clinic. The evaluation process involves a 360-degree feedback mechanism wherein residents are assessed by various stakeholders, including faculty, residents, and patients. These evaluations are designed to reinforce strengths and address any areas needing improvement, facilitating an environment of ongoing learning and adaptation.

Faculty and Mentorship

The success of the Marshfield Clinic Dermatology Residency is heavily influenced by its dedicated faculty, who are committed to teaching and mentoring residents. Faculty members maintain a strong presence within the program, ensuring that residents receive personalized guidance and instruction tailored to their individual learning styles.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This residency program values diversity and accepts non-traditional applicants, including those with unique backgrounds or prior residency training. The flexible approach to candidate selection reflects the program's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that nurtures varying experiences and perspectives.

Resident Life

Resident well-being is prioritized, with specific initiatives designed to encourage a healthy work-life balance. The program not only supports educational endeavors with dedicated academic time but also fosters an inclusive community through social activities and a support network.

In summary, the Marshfield Clinic Dermatology Residency Program is structured to equip residents with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experiences required for exemplary care in dermatology. With a focus on education, mentorship, and holistic development, the program positions its graduates for successful careers in the field.