Residency Advisor
Cottonwood, AZ

Specialty:

Internal medicine

ACGME Code:

1400300539

NRMP Program Code:

2156140C0
YOG 3STEP 209 Research Focused DO FriendlyIMG FriendlyJ1

The Verde Valley Medical Center's Internal Medicine Residency Program, part of the Midwestern University Graduate Medical Education Consortium, is dedicated to equipping its trainees with advanced training in the specialty of internal medicine. The program is designed to create a comprehensive didactic and clinical learning environment that fosters both educational and wellness needs, thereby enabling graduates to serve effectively as physicians and as responsible community members. The residency aims to instill a culture of quality, continuous improvement, and safety while emphasizing patient-centered communication and shared decision-making.

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The mission of the Verde Valley Medical Center Internal Medicine Residency is to provide concentrated training while promoting a setting that emphasizes quality and patient safety. This commitment extends to providing necessary resources for career development, fostering a supportive environment, and nurturing skills essential for effective communication with patients and their families.

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Curriculum

The curriculum is structured over a three-year training period built around 13 four-week blocks. Residents can expect core training in several key areas including Internal Medicine Ward-Based, Pulmonary/ICU, Emergency Medicine, Cardiology, Hematology/Oncology, Palliative Care, and various subspecialties such as Neurology, Infectious Disease, Geriatrics, and Gastroenterology. Additionally, residents have access to electives that cover diverse topics ranging from Allergy/Immunology to Women’s Health.

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Training takes place across multiple participating sites, with the Verde Valley Medical Center serving as the primary site, supplemented by Flagstaff Medical Center, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics, Mountain Vista Medical Center, and the Sedona Emergency Department. Core didactic components include Lunch Lectures, Tumor Boards, Morbidity and Mortality meetings, and Simulation Training.

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Benefits and Resources

Residents in the program are supported through a competitive stipend structure with salary increments available during each postgraduate year: PGY-1 ($64,488), PGY-2 ($67,106), PGY-3 ($70,028), and PGY-3 Chief ($73,223). Furthermore, the program offers comprehensive benefits which include health, dental, and vision insurance, disability insurance, as well as professional liability insurance.

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Additional support for residents includes six weeks of paid leave, an employee assistance program, medical board licensure assistance, and annual funds for education, research, and conference travel. The provision of resources aims to ensure that residents can adequately care for patients while maintaining a balanced personal life.

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Application Process

For prospective applicants, the program offers a total of four first-year (PGY-1) positions annually. Eligibility requires graduates from U.S. Osteopathic Medical Schools (COCA accredited) or accredited medical schools in the U.S. and Canada (LCME accredited). International Medical Graduates must possess a valid ECFMG certificate or a full unrestricted medical license within a U.S. jurisdiction.

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The application process necessitates the submission of several critical documents including personal statements, CVs, multiple letters of recommendation, and transcripts from either USMLE or COMLEX. Candidates must also register with the NRMP for matching purposes.

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Competitiveness and Unique Aspects

The Verde Valley Medical Center's residency program is known for being competitive, yet it is considered friendly to both DO and IMG applicants, creating an inclusive environment for diverse backgrounds.

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This program stands out due to its commitment to osteopathic principles and collaborative training, ensuring that residents get exposure to various population spectrums and clinical settings.

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Visa Sponsorship and Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Specifically, it provides support for J-1 visas, facilitating the entry of international physicians into the U.S. to complete their residency training.

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Life in Cottonwood, Arizona

Residents have the opportunity to experience life in Cottonwood, Arizona, a quaint town known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. The community offers a supportive atmosphere, enhancing both the personal and professional growth of residents.

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Website

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

5, 5, 5 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2017

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

50 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

10 hours

First Year Salary:

$64,488

First Year Paid Vacation:

15 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

5 days

Training

Fellowship Rate:
36%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
0.5X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:
209
Visa Sponsorship:
J1
YOG Cutoff:
3

Match History

Track: 2156140C0

2024

4 of 5

2023

4 of 4

2022

4 of 5

2021

4 of 4

2020

5 of 5
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Cottonwood, AZ

Population
12,029
Income
$47,162
Education
26.4%
Employment
47.6%
Health
18.7%
Age
54
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Cottonwood, AZ

Cottonwood, Arizona, offers a blend of scenic beauty and small-town charm. Here are some aspects to consider

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    Cottonwood has a lower crime rate compared to larger cities in Arizona, making it a relatively safe place to live.
  • Fun Activities
    Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring nearby national forests. The town also has a vibrant arts and culture scene.
  • Climate
    Cottonwood has a mild climate with hot summers and cool winters, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy the outdoors.
  • Races and Population
    The population of Cottonwood is diverse, with a mix of different races and cultures contributing to the community.
  • Education
    Cottonwood has decent educational facilities, including schools and libraries, to support residents in their academic pursuits.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Cottonwood is lower than in larger cities in Arizona, making it an affordable place to live.
  • Proximity to Bigger Cities
    Cottonwood is approximately a 20-minute drive from Prescott, a larger city known for its historical charm and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Considerations
    Despite its beautiful surroundings, Cottonwood is a smaller town, which may limit access to certain amenities and services found in larger urban areas.

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