The National Capital Consortium (NCC) Transitional Year Internship Program, located at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, provides a robust training framework in a unique military medical environment. This program combines rigorous clinical training with leadership development tailored for military medical officers including Army, Navy, and Air Force residents.
Program Overview 1
The NCC Transitional Year (TY) Internship Program is a one-year, ACGME accredited program specifically designed to prepare its residents for further specialty training, operational medical officer roles, or general medical officer positions. The program emphasizes a diverse yet individualized training experience, allowing residents to develop the necessary skills to excel in various military medical contexts.
Mission and Vision 1
The mission of the TY Residency program is to cultivate a well-rounded educational experience that prepares its residents for their future roles within military medicine. A core objective is to enhance clinical skills and promote leadership capabilities among physicians. The program seeks to achieve these goals through a combination of fundamental clinical rotations and operationally relevant curriculum components.
Curriculum and Rotations 1
Residents participate in a total of 13 block rotations, each lasting four weeks. Core rotations include:
- Ambulatory Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Internal Medicine Wards
- Intensive Care Unit (Medical or Surgical)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Psychiatry (Consult Liaison Service)
In addition to core rotations, each resident has the opportunity to select four elective rotations tailored to their individual interests and career goals. The training schedule is enhanced by dedicated didactic sessions, which encompass a range of topics including clinical medicine, operational medicine, and wellness.
Research and Scholarly Activities 1
Residents engage in scholarly activities, including preparing a case report for competition and conducting quality improvement projects. Participation in IHI online courses is also required, ensuring a solid foundation in healthcare quality and safety practices.
Training Sites 1
The program encompasses multiple high-quality training sites such as:
- A.T. Augusta Military Medical Center
- Inova Fairfax Civilian Hospital
- Malcolm Grow Medical Center
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center
- Veterans Administration Medical Center
Each site provides unique learning environments where residents can apply clinical knowledge in diverse settings.
Visa Support 1
The NCC Transitional Year program offers visa support primarily for J-1 visas. This means that international medical graduates (IMGs) can participate in the program, providing a diverse training cohort.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements 1
While the program is competitive, it is known to be accessible to both DOs and IMGs, focusing on individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to military medicine. Applicants typically must have graduated from medical school and are required to pass the COMLEX/USMLE Step 3 examination prior to graduation.
Unique Program Features 1
The NCC Transitional Year program prioritizes wellness and support for interns, promoting a healthy work-life balance and family-like environment. There are numerous opportunities for leadership roles, enhancing both professional and personal development. The program also offers additional training opportunities, including the Combat Casualty Care Course and operational medicine simulations.
Teaching and Mentorship 1
Residents have ample opportunities to engage in teaching medical students and participate in faculty mentorship programs. Each intern is paired with a current resident for guidance throughout their clinical journey.
Website
Director
Danielle M Barnes, MDProgram Director, Transitional Year Internship Appointed Since September 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
-First year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Bethesda, MD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Bethesda, MD
- Safety: Bethesda is considered a safe area with a lower crime rate compared to other parts of Maryland.
- Fun Activities: Bethesda offers a vibrant arts and culture scene with theaters, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. It also has beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for recreational activities.
- Climate: Bethesda experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant.
- Population: Bethesda is a diverse community with a mix of residents from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Education: Bethesda is known for its excellent public and private schools, making it a family-friendly area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Bethesda is higher than the national average, especially in terms of housing.
- Nearby Cities: Washington, D.C. is approximately 30 minutes away by car, offering a wide range of cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment options.
Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, excellent schools, proximity to Washington, D.C.
Cons: High cost of living, especially housing prices.
Interview Questions
