Prime South GME Consortium/St. Joseph Medical Center Program

Overview of the Internal Medicine Residency Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at St. Joseph Medical Center is a newly established ACGME-accredited program set to begin in July 2025. The program will host a total of 39 residents, with 13 positions available in each postgraduate year (PGY). St. Joseph Medical Center is a 310-bed acute care hospital known for its diverse medical and surgical specialties. The program aims to equip future physicians with the skills needed for successful careers in healthcare, supported by a dedicated faculty committed to education and community service.1

Training Sites and Curriculum

The Internal Medicine Residency will employ a 4+1 schedule model, allowing residents to focus on intensive inpatient training followed by a week dedicated to ambulatory medicine. This design promotes resident well-being while ensuring a rigorous clinical education. In the PGY-1 year, residents will engage in rotations including Adult Inpatient Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, and various electives such as Cardiology and Geriatrics. Higher years will continue to build on these foundational skills with increased responsibilities and elective opportunities in subspecialties.4

Research Opportunities

Residents will benefit from numerous opportunities to engage in scholarly activities, collaborating with research directors affiliated with the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM). This partnership enhances the program's educational components, enabling residents to pursue quality improvement projects, bench research, and clinical studies.1

Program Leadership and Faculty

The program benefits from experienced leadership, with a faculty comprised of accomplished professionals actively engaged in various subspecialties. The Program Director, Amit J. Patel, MD, brings extensive academic and clinical teaching experience and is dedicated to nurturing a supportive educational environment. The Associate Program Director, Christopher Riffel, MD, focuses on curriculum development and resident wellness, ensuring a balanced and enriching learning experience for all residents.3

Application Requirements

To apply to the program, candidates must hold a medical degree from a recognized institution accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must present a valid ECFMG certificate and documentation of substantial US clinical experience. The program accepts only J-1 Visas for international applicants.2

Competitiveness and Applicant Characteristics

The Internal Medicine Residency Program aims to attract exceptional candidates who are bright, motivated, and committed to building the internal medicine residency experience at St. Joseph Medical Center. The competitiveness for positions is expected to be high, with a focus on applicants who demonstrate both clinical experience and academic excellence. The program encourages applications from both US graduates and international medical graduates, promoting a diverse and inclusive training environment.2

Commitment to Diversity

Prime South Consortium GME is committed to maintaining a non-discriminatory environment in the residency program. The program welcomes applicants regardless of gender, race, age, religion, or other backgrounds, promoting diversity within the healthcare workforce.2