Meharry Medical College Program

The Meharry Medical College Family Medicine Residency program offers a comprehensive training experience, with a tradition of producing proficient family physicians since 1978. This program is designed to cater to a highly diverse population, allowing residents to be exposed to various medical conditions and community health issues that equip them for extensive practice duties. Residents in the Family Medicine program manage their own patients in multiple Family Medicine Centers, including those affiliated with Nashville General Hospital, Skyline Medical Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Veteran Affairs Clinics, under the guidance of Board-Certified Family Medicine Physicians and Specialists. This integrative model provides a profound opportunity for residents to develop necessary medical competencies in a real-world setting while engaging with patient populations who are underserved and vulnerable, thus promoting a mission of health equity and community service.1

Curriculum Structure

The residency curriculum is meticulously structured into 12 monthly rotations starting July 1st each academic year. Rotations encompass essential clinical disciplines such as Outpatient Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Emergency Medicine, Cardiology, Inpatient Services, Radiology, Practice Management, Behavioral Health, Geriatrics, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Dermatology, Community Medicine, and Primary Care. This diverse rotation schedule ensures that residents gain hands-on experience across a full spectrum of Family Medicine practices to prepare them for independent practice upon graduation.1

Education and Conferences

The department emphasizes continuous education by holding residency conferences every Wednesday, with Grand Rounds occurring on the first Wednesday of each month. The conference topics range from Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) to a Journal Club that reviews contemporary literature in pediatrics, adult medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, and behavioral health. Moreover, residents take advantage of resources such as the AAFP, New England Journal of Medicine, Rosh Board Review preparation, and comprehensive library and online resources to enhance their learning.1

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to participate in research initiatives that align with the program's commitment to addressing health disparities in minority populations. The environment fosters the exploration of innovative healthcare solutions and successful outcomes through high-quality health services delivered in real-world settings.2

Clinical Training Sites

Residents in the Family Medicine program benefit from diverse clinical experiences across various facilities, including but not limited to: Metropolitan Nashville General Hospital, the Nashville TN Valley Healthcare System, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and several other community-based clinics and hospitals. This extensive exposure allows residents to apply their clinical knowledge effectively while servicing various patient demographics, reinforcing their competencies in family medicine.2

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The Meharry Family Medicine Residency program has specific application requirements. Applicants must possess a medical degree from an accredited institution within the last three years. International medical school graduates must hold a valid certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). However, the program does not currently sponsor visas, which makes it exclusive to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must submit their USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 or COMLEX scores along with medical school transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, the program allows for a maximum of one failed attempt on either the Step exams.2

Competitiveness and Diversity

The program is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the medical field, making it accessible and supportive for applicants from varied backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates. The focus on serving underserved populations aligns with the program's mission and attracts applicants eager to make a difference in the healthcare landscape.2

Benefits and Compensation

Residents receive competitive compensation with salaries starting from $59,676 for PGY1 up to $66,175 for PGY4. They also enjoy 20 days of paid time off, malpractice insurance, access to a resident wellness lounge, meal cards for approved rotations, and comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Additional perks include a 403(b) retirement savings plan, an employee assistance program, and other life and disability insurance options.2