The Family Medicine Residency Program at CHRISTUS Health in Alamogordo is a newly established program dedicated to training family physicians with a focus on providing evidence-based, compassionate care. The program aims to address the healthcare needs of Otero County and surrounding rural areas by supporting the development of skilled family physicians.
Program Overview
This residency program secured initial accreditation from the ACGME in October 2019 and began accepting residents in July 2020. The residency follows a 1 + 2 training format, where the first year (PGY-1) is completed at the Southern New Mexico Family Medicine Program at Memorial Medical Center, allowing residents to gain foundational clinical skills before continuing their training for two additional years in family medicine.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive experience that combines inpatient and outpatient care, ensuring residents receive a well-rounded education in family medicine. The training encompasses various clinical rotations across multiple specialties, allowing residents to engage with diverse patient populations and medical conditions.
Rotations and Clinical Training
Residents will rotate through key specialties such as internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and surgery, among others. This multidimensional approach prepares residents to manage a wide array of health issues, enhancing their capabilities as family physicians. Emphasis is placed on continuity of care, with opportunities to follow patients across different stages of care.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages residents to participate in research activities that enhance their learning and contribute to evidence-based practice. Opportunities may arise through collaborations with faculty and involvement in community health initiatives, providing a platform to explore scholarly interests.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the distinguishing features of this residency program is its strong commitment to serving the underserved populations within new Mexico. Residents will gain hands-on experience in providing care to diverse communities, which is intended to foster cultural competency and awareness of social determinants of health. Additionally, the faculty comprises seasoned practitioners with a diverse range of medical expertise, dedicated to mentoring and promoting a supportive learning environment.
Training Sites
The primary training site for the residency is Memorial Medical Center in Alamogordo, complemented by additional clinical experiences at affiliated locations. The integrated model of training facilitates a collaborative atmosphere among residents, faculty, and staff, enhancing practical learning through real-world applications.
Visa Support and Types
The Family Medicine Residency Program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. The program typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating participation from a diverse group of applicants.
Competitiveness
This residency program is positioned to be competitive, welcoming both U.S. and international medical graduates. While the program is appealing to U.S. applicants, it remains open and friendly to DO and IMG candidates, promoting diversity within the cohort.
Application Requirements
Applicants are expected to have graduated from medical school within a specific timeframe to be eligible for the program. The program has set specific guidelines regarding the number of failed exams on the USMLE Step assessments. This ensures that applicants come with a solid foundation of medical knowledge and competencies.
Community and Wellness Commitment
The program embodies a strong community commitment, emphasizing health promotion and preventive care. Wellness initiatives are integrated into the training process, fostering resilience and personal well-being among residents as they navigate the demands of medical training.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
61hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$59,000First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
6 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
6Match History
1214120C1
2024
3 of 32023
3 of 32022
3 of 32021
2 of 32020
2 of 2Location
Alamogordo, NM 88310
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Alamogordo, NM
Alamogordo, NM, is a small city located in the southern part of New Mexico. Here's what you can expect when living in Alamogordo:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Alamogordo is considered a relatively safe city with a lower crime rate compared to larger cities. It has a community-oriented police force.
- Fun Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Alamogordo's proximity to the Sacramento Mountains and White Sands National Park. The city also has recreational facilities for sports and leisure activities.
- Climate: Alamogordo has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for hot temperatures in the summer months.
- Races and Population: The population of Alamogordo is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities, making it a welcoming community.
- Education: Alamogordo has several schools, including public and private options. There is also a community college for higher education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Alamogordo is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Alamogordo is approximately 1.5 hours away from Las Cruces, NM, and about 3 hours away from El Paso, TX, by car. Both cities offer more amenities and entertainment options.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, outdoor recreational opportunities, diverse community.
- Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
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