Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center/State College Program

The Penn State Health Family and Community Medicine Residency at the Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, PA, is a unique three-year program focused on training family medicine physicians specifically geared towards sports medicine. This program is ACGME-accredited, admitting six residents annually, providing a competitive yet collaborative environment that appeals to a diverse range of candidates.

Program Highlights: The program integrates academic rigor with community involvement, allowing residents to engage in both outpatient and inpatient care. The affiliation with Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center ensures residents have access to extensive educational resources and opportunities to participate in fellowships, particularly in sports medicine.

Curriculum Overview: The residency employs a longitudinal integrated curriculum, which differs from traditional rotating schedules. This modified approach increases continuity in patient and faculty relationships, allowing residents to enhance their learning experiences through consistent feedback and patient care. Over three years, residents undergo core rotations within the fields of family medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and more, along with opportunities for electives that foster their interests in specialized areas.

Year 1 includes rotations in cardiology, general surgery, obstetrics, and pediatrics, along with a continuity clinic experience. Year 2 advances these skills in critical care, gynecology, and musculoskeletal medicine. Finally, Year 3 focuses on preparing for end-of-training assessments and independent practice, while also supporting elective pursuits that align with career goals.

Clinical Experiences: The program significantly emphasizes clinical exposure, including routine care for athletes from various levels, such as Penn State's Division 1A teams. Fellows provide medical coverage for events like the Special Olympics and gain hands-on experience in diagnostic and interventional musculoskeletal ultrasound techniques.

Research Opportunities: The program encourages research and quality improvement projects, providing robust support and resources through Penn State University. Fellows are expected to engage in scholarly work, with opportunities for presentations at various national sports medicine forums.

Visa Support and Competitiveness: For international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking residency, the program provides visa sponsorship (typically for J-1 and H-1B visa types). The program is competitive but values diverse candidates, including DO and IMG applicants, particularly those with a strong background in leadership, teamwork, and community service.

Application Requirements: Competitors for this residency must apply through ERAS, presenting three letters of recommendation—one from a family physician. Specific thresholds exist for USMLE scores, including no more than one prior failure for Steps 1 and 2, which will be noted during the selection for interviews. Applicants should ideally have graduated within the past three years. Those holding degrees from non-LCME and AOA-accredited schools may also be considered if they meet specific qualifications.

Resident Well-Being: Wellness initiatives are prioritized, with resources available to address emotional, physical, and spiritual health. Programs encourage self-care and resilience through structured wellness activities administered by Penn State’s health programs.

Life in State College: Residents benefit from living in a vibrant university town, which provides a blend of cultural experiences and recreational opportunities. State College is known for its affordable cost of living, family-friendly environment, excellent schooling systems, and a low crime rate, making it ideal for balancing professional development with personal well-being.

Overall, the Penn State Health Family and Community Medicine Residency in State College stands out for its commitment to producing well-rounded family medicine physicians prepared for the demands of both primary care and sports medicine.