Rochester General Hospital Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at Rochester General Hospital (RGH) provides a comprehensive training experience designed to develop residents into proficient physicians equipped to meet the evolving demands of medical practice. The program prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, enhancing educational opportunities while nurturing both professional and personal growth.

Program Overview

This robust program emphasizes a balance of clinical experience, didactic education, and research opportunities. Residents engage deeply with patients in a variety of settings, benefitting from the hospital's status as a 528-bed facility recognized for having one of the busiest emergency departments in the United States. Notably, RGH has been rated among the top 100 cardiac centers nationally, with various subspecialties available for fellows, such as Cardiology, Hematology/Oncology, and Clinical Informatics 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum spans three years and follows a block schedule that incorporates clinical rotations, didactics, and dedicated academic time. The program features a 4+1 block schedule that includes a continuity clinic every fifth week, allowing residents to experience outpatient care while reinforcing their inpatient learning.

Clinical Experience

Training offers substantial clinical exposure in diverse areas, including a newly developed Ambulatory Center and a state-of-the-art Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU). The program fosters comprehensive competencies through extensive hands-on experiences with an emphasis on evidence-based medicine 1.

Academic Structure

Residents benefit from a structured academic framework, including three levels of resident reports (overnight, intern, and senior), ensuring personalized academic mentoring. The program's academic half-day allows for four hours of protected time each week, fostering collaborative learning through case discussions, board review sessions, and wellness initiatives. Participation in a Case Report Curriculum offers residents the chance to write and submit cases for publication, enhancing both writing and critical evaluation skills 1.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Research plays a critical role within the RGH residency program, with opportunities for residents to engage in meaningful projects mentored by experienced faculty. The program is committed to scholarly activity, offering a formal structure to facilitate research contributions and presentations 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Innovative Approach

The program incorporates a six-week orientation boot camp to acclimate residents to the clinical environment and operational systems. Additionally, there is a focus on innovation, including a point-of-care ultrasound program and elective options that encourage residents to propose new initiatives that align with their interests 1.

Supportive Environment

The program emphasizes a familial environment whereby residents and faculty form supportive relationships. This collective atmosphere promotes wellness and resilience, allowing residents to thrive both academically and personally 1.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

The residency program's selection process is competitive, particularly welcoming applications from both DO and IMG candidates. While US-based clinical experience is not mandatory, it is favored. Critical requirements for consideration include a completed application through ERAS, successful completion of Step 1, and Step 2 CK with a minimum score of 225, among other documents such as recommendation letters and a personal statement 1. Sponsorship for J1 and H1B visas is available, with a preference for H1B applicants who may need to accept a J1 visa if the H1B cannot be secured in time 1.

Benefits and Compensation

Residents enjoy a generous compensation package, including a salary structure that progresses from $67,000 in the first year to $72,000 in the third year. Additional benefits encompass four weeks of paid vacation annually, an education allowance tailored for each year, and comprehensive health and dental insurance options 2.

Life in Rochester

The Greater Rochester area offers a blend of urban and suburban living, boasting a wealth of cultural, recreational, and educational resources. The affordability of living and the region's natural beauty contribute to a favorable environment for residents and their families 1.

Graduate Success

Graduates from the RGH Internal Medicine Residency Program are well-prepared for their subsequent career stages, whether that involves entering primary care, pursuing fellowship training, or engaging in hospitalist roles. The program also fosters lasting connections within the professional community of Rochester, making it a difficult location for many graduates to leave 1.