Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center/Hershey Program

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center's Family and Community Medicine Residency Program in Hershey, PA, stands out for its long history and dedication to producing the next generation of full-spectrum family physicians. Founded in 1967, it was the first department of family and community medicine at an academic medical center in the United States.

The program prides itself on a nurturing academic environment, where enthusiastic faculty are devoted to residents' personal and professional growth. Strengths of the program include a culture of wellness and support, a comprehensive curriculum that covers health systems management, quality improvement, population health, community advocacy, and more. Residents have the option to take part in areas of concentration like academic medicine, care of the marginalized patient, global health, hospital medicine, leadership and advocacy, sports medicine, and women’s health.

Housed in an academic medical center, the program leverages rich resources to provide a vibrant academic setting. Residents learn and grow surrounded by family physician role models and fellow medical learners, instilling the skills necessary for excellent, compassionate family-centered care. Integration with teams from other specialties fosters a collaborative learning environment, enriching the educational experience.

Key aspects that potentially draw applicants to this program include its pioneering history in family medicine, its comprehensive and nationally recognized curriculum, and the opportunity to train in a supportive, resource-rich environment. Additionally, the program's commitment to wellness, innovation in education, and community involvement ensures that residents are well-prepared for their future roles as healthcare leaders.

As for application requirements and eligibility, the program welcomes both MD and DO applicants. Preference is given to applicants with solid academic standing from LCME-accredited medical schools and those who demonstrate leadership, teamwork, compassion, and integrity. Criteria for eligibility include graduation from medical school within the past three years, passing of USMLE (Steps 1 and 2) with no more than one total prior failure, and passing the Clinical Skills (CS) exam on the first attempt. For osteopathic graduates, COMLEX scores are accepted with similar requirements. Highly qualified graduates of non-LCME accredited medical schools may be considered if they meet the residency’s high standards, which include a minimum of three months of clinical training in the US or Canada, or comparable clinical experience that demonstrates an understanding and interest in primary care and Family Medicine.

The program supports only J-1 visas for non-U.S. applicants, a crucial detail for international medical graduates considering the program.

By offering a supportive academic environment, an exhaustive curriculum, and opportunities for specialized areas of concentration, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center's Family and Community Medicine Residency Program prepares its residents to lead, teach, and thrive in the evolving healthcare landscape while serving their communities.