Penn Highlands DuBois Program

The Penn Highlands DuBois Family Medicine Residency Program offers a robust three-year curriculum designed to train future family medicine physicians equipped to meet the healthcare needs of rural communities. Each year, the program admits six new residents, totaling eighteen during the span of their training.

Residents receive thorough inpatient and outpatient training through direct one-on-one interaction with attending physicians. The program’s multifaceted approach ensures that residents are not only well-versed in clinical practice but also capable of handling a diverse range of medical situations found in rural settings. A structured inpatient teaching service enhances the educational experience, promoting an organized method of clinical education and deepening residents' learning journey.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is divided into three years, employing a total of thirteen 4-week blocks per academic year. To illustrate:

• PGY 1: Focus on foundational skills with rotations in inpatient medicine, pediatrics, OBGYN, and emergency department, among others.
• PGY 2: More specialized training with a dedicated rotation in sports medicine and the opportunity to work in various outpatient clinical settings.
• PGY 3: Continues to build expertise with additional electives and selective opportunities, allowing for deeper engagement in areas of personal interest.

Daily didactic sessions, workshops, and quality improvement projects supplement clinical practice, reinforcing knowledge and skills within collaborative environments.

Rotations and Specialties

The program offers a comprehensive list of rotations, including internal medicine, orthopedics, urology, and specifically designed slots for sports medicine, among others. The variety in clinical training prepares the residents for any sports medicine challenges they may face in their futures. Additionally, the program offers electives in various subspecialties like cardiology and dermatology, catering to residents' individual career aspirations and interests.

Community Engagement

Residents actively participate in community outreach initiatives, enhancing their understanding of public health. This includes involvement as Team Physicians for local sports teams and volunteering at the Free Medical Clinic of DuBois. Such participation underscores the program's commitment to holistic training that goes beyond traditional medical settings.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, which includes working on established hospital-wide Quality Improvement Projects or initiating their own research endeavors. This focus on research and quality improvement fosters skills that are integral to a modern medical practice.

Competitive Application Process

To apply, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria. This includes being a graduate of an accredited medical school within two years from the expected graduation cycle or holding a valid ECFMG certificate for international medical graduates. All applicants must submit their applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), providing transcripts, board scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

Benefits and Salary

Residents in the program receive a competitive salary that progresses annually: starting at $65,532 in the first year, moving to $67,905, and reaching $70,175 in the final year. A comprehensive benefits package includes health, vision, and dental insurance options, professional development stipends, 20 days of paid time off (PTO), and additional support for wellness activities.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports visa applicants and can sponsor H-1B and J-1 visas, making it accessible for international medical graduates. This inclusive approach enhances the diversity of the residency cohort, providing a broad-ranging perspective on patient care.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The Penn Highlands DuBois Family Medicine Residency program is known for being friendly towards both DO applicants and international medical graduates (IMGs). The variety of training opportunities and the community-centered approach provide a supportive environment for all residents, enhancing the program's appeal among aspiring family doctors.