Osteopathic Medical Education Consortium of Oklahoma (OMECO/Talihina) Program

The Osteopathic Medical Education Consortium of Oklahoma (OMECO/Talihina) Program in Family Medicine at Talihina is designed to provide comprehensive training for osteopathic and allopathic graduates. Structured to align with ACGME standards, the program promotes a holistic approach to medical education, nurturing residents to become proficient family physicians.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the program, candidates must successfully graduate from either an allopathic or osteopathic medical school recognized by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The program specifically invites Doctores of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) to apply, as successful graduation from a Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA)-accredited college is essential for obtaining osteopathic recognition. Applicants utilize NRMP match code 2171120C1 for the application process.

Curriculum Overview

The program's curriculum emphasizes continuous and comprehensive care across all stages of life. Training covers a broad spectrum of medical knowledge and practice areas, allowing residents to acquire skills in multi-faceted settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities. Residents engage in evidence-based practices treating acute, chronic, and preventive health issues. The educational experience is tailored through diverse clinical rotations, designed to enhance competency with progressively complex cases.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

Residency rotations are meticulously curated to offer expansive patient care exposure. Not only does the program include rotations within the Talihina facility, but it also partners with affiliated tertiary care hospitals for specialized training. Residents are responsible for various specialties, including critical care, thereby ensuring a well-rounded clinical education. Each resident is assigned a continuity clinic where they practice outpatient care, ensuring consistent patient relationships throughout training.

Call Coverage

Call coverage is integrated into the residency to enhance educational experiences. Adhering to ACGME guidelines, the call frequency is structured, averaging one call every ten days with one weekend call per month. Residents benefit from dedicated call rooms equipped with essential amenities, including high-speed internet, personal fridges, and entertainment options, ensuring comfort during on-call periods.

Salary and Benefits

The program offers competitive salaries that scale with residency progression: PGY 1 at $65,000, PGY 2 at $67,500, and PGY 3 at $70,000. An educational stipend of $2,000 per year supports residents’ continuing education endeavors. Healthcare benefits include a comprehensive insurance package covering medical, dental, and life insurance, along with professional liability insurance. Residents also receive housing assistance and coverage for various certification and examination expenses throughout their training.

Moonlighting and Additional Opportunities

Residents are allowed to moonlight under certain conditions as per the program director's discretion. This opportunity is offered to upper-level residents who are licensed and compliant with ACGME requirements. Moreover, the program fosters engagement in scholarly activities and encourages residents to pursue their unique interests through individualized learning plans, which are reassessed semi-annually.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

Currently, the program does not sponsor visa applications, which may be a consideration for international medical graduates. The program remains competitive in its applicant selection, evaluating candidates based on a holistic review process that includes multiple factors beyond USMLE or COMLEX scores.

Training Facilities

Residents train at the Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority (CNHSA), a comprehensive health facility that encompasses a variety of crucial medical services. The CNHSA provides access to advanced diagnostic technologies and a range of specialties, including behavioral health, women’s health, and pediatrics, facilitating extensive clinical training.

Community and Lifestyle

Situated in Talihina, Oklahoma, the program integrates the charm of a small town environment nestled amidst scenic landscapes with the benefits of comprehensive medical training. With access to an expansive healthcare system and substantial community engagement opportunities, residents are equipped to serve diverse populations.