Prisma Health/University of South Carolina SOM Columbia (Columbia) Program

Program Overview

The Prisma Health/University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia provides a structured and comprehensive residency training in Internal Medicine. The program spans three years, during which residents gain extensive exposure to both primary care and various subspecialties, preparing them for careers in either general internal medicine or subspecialty fellowship programs.

The curriculum emphasizes a balanced distribution of experiences in inpatient wards, outpatient settings, and elective specialties, ensuring residents achieve a well-rounded education.1

Curriculum

The residency program consists of 13 four-week blocks each academic year, primarily focusing on inpatient and ambulatory care, with specific rotations in the medical intensive care unit as well as electives. The breakdown for each year is as follows:

• First Year: 6 blocks in general medicine wards, 3 in ambulatory care, 2 in medical intensive care, and 2 elective blocks.
• Second Year: 2 blocks in general medicine wards, 3 in ambulatory care, 2 in medical intensive care, and 4 elective blocks.
• Third Year: 2 blocks in general medicine wards, 3 in ambulatory care, 1 in emergency medicine, and 5 elective blocks.

Specialized training can also be pursued through the primary care track, which is designed for residents interested in outpatient medicine, allocating more time to outpatient clinics and specialty rotations.1

Areas of Rotation

Residents engage in a variety of rotations, including:

• General Medicine Services
• Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU)
• Subspecialty Rotations such as Cardiology, Infectious Disease, Hematology/Oncology, and more.

The general medicine service is structured with dedicated teams admitting patients and working alongside medical students and interns, allowing for hands-on experience in care delivery.2

Didactics and Training

The didactic curriculum integrates case-based and lecture-based learning within inpatient and outpatient settings. This includes morning reports focused on clinical decision-making, departmental grand rounds with esteemed specialists, and specialized sessions on ultrasound skills and medical ethics.3

Moreover, the program’s residents benefit from a simulation center providing opportunities to engage with high-fidelity patient simulators, enhancing their decision-making and procedural skills in a controlled environment.3

Research and Academic Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to participate in research projects and have access to various academic resources and faculty mentorship for advancing their scholarly interests. The program hosts multiple fellowship opportunities across various specialties, facilitating further training for residents who wish to pursue subspecialty careers after completing their residency.1

Visa Support

The residency program provides comprehensive visa support to international medical graduates, essential for those requiring assistance with work authorization or residency admission. The program typically sponsors J-1 visas, which are common for graduate medical training within the United States.1

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Prisma Health/University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia Residency Program is viewed as highly competitive. It welcomes applications from both U.S. and international medical graduates (IMGs). Notably, the program has a track record of being friendly toward osteopathic (DO) graduates and IMGs, often valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences.1

Specific application requirements include a maximum of two failed attempts on the USMLE Steps, and candidates are encouraged to demonstrate significant clinical experience and a commitment to the field of internal medicine through their applications.1

Unique Aspects

This program stands out for its emphasis on inter-professional healthcare and the utilization of bedside point-of-care ultrasound, which are increasingly recognized as vital components in modern medical practice. By integrating these skills into the training, residents are better equipped to respond to the evolving healthcare landscape.1

The program fosters a strong sense of community and support among residents, promoting an environment where teamwork and collaboration are prioritized, as reflected in the positive experiences shared by current residents.1