Michigan State University Program
Location:
Alma, MISpecialty:
Family medicineACGME Code:
1202500734NRMP Program Code:
2436120C0The Michigan State University/MyMichigan Medical Center Alma Family Medicine Residency Program is a three-year unopposed program located in Alma, Michigan, aimed at training family medicine physicians dedicated to serving rural communities. With its intimate size, the program emphasizes personalized education and comprehensive, hands-on training, benefiting from a unique system that incorporates both urban and rural medical practices.
Curriculum
The residency encompasses a diverse and rigorous curriculum structured around significant clinical exposure and didactic education. The first year (PGY-1) includes rotations in family medicine, emergency medicine, psychiatry, pediatrics, and cardiology, among others. This progression continues through the second (PGY-2) and third years (PGY-3), which include rotations in lifestyle medicine, obstetrics, geriatrics, and electives tailored to residents’ interests.4
Training and Rotations
The program is noted for its unopposed nature, which means residents have exclusive access to the training opportunities available at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma without competing for learning experiences with residents from other specialties. The Family Practice Center Alma, the residency clinic, was recently renovated to foster a team-based approach to patient care. Residents will have the chance to provide comprehensive care for patients across all age groups, honing skills in sports medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, and lifestyle medicine within the community.7
Research Opportunities
Residents are involved in ongoing research projects, including two original research initiatives during their training, with at least one focusing on quality improvement. The program collaborates with entities like Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, providing a strong foundation for residents interested in academic medicine or research.3
Unique Program Features
Several innovative components are included in the curriculum. Residents receive extensive training in Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) and enjoy opportunities to become dual board certified in family medicine and lifestyle medicine. The Lifestyle Medicine curriculum integrates preventive care strategies that address issues like obesity and chronic disease.4
Facilities and Resources
The MyMichigan Medical Center Alma is a 107-bed facility providing various medical specialties, including cardiology, surgery, pediatrics, and more. The residency program also benefits from a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory and a fully equipped medical library, placing a strong emphasis on the technological resources in medical education.8
Benefits and Stipends
Residents receive a competitive salary, starting at $61,182 for first-year residents, and enjoy numerous benefits, including paid time off, meal allowances, educational materials, and professional organization memberships. Additionally, Michigan Educational and Controlled Substance licenses are covered by the program, along with ACLS and NRP certification costs.6
Application Requirements
Applicants to the residency program must meet specific criteria. These include being a graduate from medical school within the last three years, holding ECFMG certification if from an international medical school, and providing three letters of recommendation, one of which must come from a board-certified family medicine physician. Importantly, the program does not provide visa sponsorship, and candidates must have US citizenship or permanent residency status.2
Visa Support
It should be noted that the program does not sponsor any visas. Candidates must be US citizens or have permanent residency status to apply, limiting the pool mainly to domestic applicants.2
Competitiveness
Given its unopposed nature and comprehensive training approach, the Michigan State University/MyMichigan Medical Center Alma Family Medicine Residency Program is regarded as highly competitive. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate strong clinical experiences and interpersonal skills in their application materials.2
Resident Life
The resident community is characterized by a supportive and collaborative environment, with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. The program encourages wellness and work-life balance through organized retreats and dedicated time for personal appointments.3
Website
Director
Arturas Klugas, MDProgram Director Appointed Since January 2016Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$59,400First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
14%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
215Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
3Match History
2436120C0
2024
1 of 42023
1 of 12022
1 of 42021
1 of 12020
1 of 4Location
Alma, MI 48801
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Alma, MI
- Crime Rate and Safety: Alma has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages, making it a safe place to live. Residents can feel secure in their surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Alma offers various recreational activities such as parks, hiking trails, and community events. There are also local shops and restaurants to explore.
- Climate: Alma experiences all four seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities during the warmer months and winter sports during winter.
- Races and Population: Alma has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Education: Alma is home to Alma College, which provides educational and cultural opportunities for both residents and students.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Alma is generally lower than in larger cities, making it an affordable place to reside.
- Nearby Cities: Lansing, the capital of Michigan, is approximately an hour's drive from Alma. Lansing offers a wider range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, affordable cost of living, proximity to Alma College.
- Cons: Limited entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Interview Questions
