Residency Advisor

The Transitional Year Residency Program at MetroWest Medical Center (MWMC) in Framingham offers comprehensive training designed to prepare medical graduates for advanced studies in specialized fields. The program provides a balanced clinical education encompassing both adult and pediatric medicine, with a commitment to high-quality training experiences.

MetroWest Medical Center is a community hospital affiliated with Tufts University School of Medicine, allowing residents access to a wide array of educational resources and opportunities. The program prides itself on a friendly environment that fosters learning and professional growth. Graduates of the program have successfully transitioned into various advanced residency programs, including anesthesiology, radiology, and dermatology. The program offers 12 residency positions annually and accepts applications exclusively through ERAS. It is important to note that the program supports J-1 Visa sponsorship for international medical graduates through the ECFMG, reflecting its commitment to diverse training experiences.

Program Structure

The Transitional Year Residency is structured to provide residents with varied clinical experiences. Key components of the training include rotations in:

  • Internal Medicine
  • Pediatrics
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Elective rotations

This structure enables residents to gain a broad clinical experience that is pivotal for success in any chosen specialty. The program emphasizes a comprehensive approach to patient care, integrating different aspects of medical training.

Training Environment

MetroWest Medical Center comprises an acute care facility, Framingham Union Hospital, and Leonard Morse Hospital, a behavioral health unit, offering a diverse patient population. The program’s location in Framingham provides convenient access to metropolitan Boston, making it an optimal environment for professional and personal growth.

Application Requirements

Applicants must meet specific criteria for consideration. Generally, the program looks for candidates who have graduated from medical school no more than five years ago. An essential requirement for international medical graduates is the preference for US clinical experience. The program favors applicants with USMLE Step scores above 220 on their first attempts and only sponsors J-1 Visas, which adds a level of competitiveness for entrants.

Research and Career Development

Research opportunities are embedded within the residency curriculum, with residents encouraged to engage in scholarly activities and clinical research. The program fosters an environment where residents can explore their interests, contributing to their preparation for fellowship or other advanced training positions. Graduates frequently secure competitive fellowship placements or choose to pursue careers in primary care or hospital medicine.

Salary and Benefits

In terms of compensation, the starting salary for PGY-1 residents is $67,695, with incremental increases for each subsequent year (PGY-2 at $70,604 and PGY-3 at $73,513). The program includes benefits such as medical, dental, and eye insurance, along with amenities like free on-campus parking, meal provisions during on-call hours, and four weeks of vacation per year.

Community and Support

The program is designed to cultivate not only medical knowledge but also community among residents through various activities and wellness initiatives. Residents can participate in numerous wellness activities intended to promote well-being and resilience during their training.

In summary, the Transitional Year Residency Program at MetroWest Medical Center represents a solid foundation for medical graduates looking for a rounded experience in preparation for their next career steps.

For those interested in further details about the program, including in-depth information regarding individual rotations and potential research opportunities, application submission guidelines, and salary structures, looking into the specifics offered by the program will be beneficial.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

12 (1 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 1983

Composition

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

70hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

16hrs

First Year Salary:

$63,677

First Year Paid Vacation:

15 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

Unlimited days

Training

Fellowship Rate:

100%

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

2.8X

Residents career path:

Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

225

Visa Sponsorship:

J1

YOG Cutoff:

5

Location

Framingham, MA

Population
72,362
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
39

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Framingham, MA

Framingham, MA, located about 20 miles west of Boston, offers a suburban feel with a diverse population. Here's a breakdown of the various aspects:

Crime Rate and Safety

Framingham has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, but it's still considered safe overall. Adopting standard safety measures is advisable.

Fun Activities

Residents can enjoy various outdoor activities in the numerous parks and trails in the area. Additionally, downtown Framingham offers shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

Climate

Framingham experiences all four seasons typical of New England. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid. Fall foliage is stunning.

Races and Population

Framingham has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, making it a vibrant and inclusive community.

Education

The town boasts good public schools and is home to Framingham State University. Residents have access to quality educational opportunities.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Framingham is higher than the national average, especially housing costs. It's essential to budget accordingly.

Proximity to Bigger Cities

Boston is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Framingham, offering access to a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities.

Pros:
  • Diverse population and inclusive community.
  • Close proximity to Boston for additional amenities.
Cons:
  • Higher cost of living, especially housing.
  • Winter weather can be challenging for some.

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Transitional year

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