Old Dominion University Program

Introduction

The Internal Medicine Residency at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University is an ACGME-accredited three-year program aimed at producing clinically competent physicians prepared for various fields, including general practice and hospitalist medicine. Located at the shared medical complex that includes the area's only Level I trauma care facility, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, the program seeks to offer residents a comprehensive education in the field of internal medicine.

Application Process

Applications to the program must be submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program does not accept applications through email or fax. Applicants may choose from three distinct tracks: Medicine-Preliminary, Internal Medicine (Categorical), and Internal Med/Geriatrics (Categorical). Applications are accepted until November 1st each year, with all intern positions filled through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).

Submitting three letters of recommendation is a requirement, alongside the dean's letter. Notably, a department chair's letter is not obligatory. The program does not impose minimum USMLE or COMLEX score filters; however, as a reference for prospective candidates, the average Step 1 USMLE score for the current intern class is 229, while the average COMLEX score is 541.

All required tests must be passed on the first attempt, and COMLEX Level 2 PE and/or USMLE Step 2 CK scores need to be reported by January 31st. International medical graduates (IMGs) are encouraged to apply, provided they submit their ECFMG certification by the same date and possess approximately 12 months of clinical experience in the U.S., not including observerships.

Interview Process

Interviews are typically conducted from November through January, with up to 200 applicants being interviewed each year. Residents from the program also host an informal dinner with applicants the evening before the interview day to foster a sense of community and establish rapport. The interview day generally includes a series of one-on-one meetings with faculty and a tour of Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

Curriculum and Training Settings

The residency curriculum at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences emphasizes comprehensive patient care. Residents gain experience in diverse clinical environments, vital for developing the necessary skills for their future careers. The core training sites include:

• Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: The principal teaching hospital with specialized programs in cardiology, oncology, and trauma care, allowing residents to engage in cutting-edge medical practices.
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• Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center: Focused on aging-related diseases, this facility supports geriatric rotations for combined internal medicine and geriatrics residents.
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• Sentara Ambulatory Care Clinic: This clinic serves uninsured and underinsured populations, allowing residents to provide continuity care and engage with a multidisciplinary team.
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Research Opportunities

The program offers an array of NIH-funded research opportunities in both general medicine and various subspecialties. Residents are encouraged to become involved in research projects, contributing to medical knowledge while developing critical skills.

Competitive Requirements and Visa Support

The program maintains a competitive application process, welcoming both domestic and international medical graduates. While USMLE scores are recommended, the program is noted for being friendly toward DO and IMG applicants. The program sponsors J-1 visas exclusively, providing necessary support for eligible international individuals.

Additionally, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a robust understanding of U.S. healthcare practices through substantial clinical experiences.