Rutgers Health/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Program

The Family Medicine Residency Program at Rutgers Health/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS) in New Brunswick is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare residents for a successful career in family medicine. The program is a 5-5-5 model, integrating academic rigor and community-focused training. Residents benefit from a rich educational environment and a variety of clinical exposure.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the Family Medicine Residency is managed through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). The program accepts applications for five PGY 1 positions from September through early December, with any submissions received after this timeframe not being reviewed. There is a strong preference for candidates from U.S. MD or DO programs, although outstanding graduates from international medical schools are encouraged to apply.

Key application requirements include:

• Enrollment in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).
• Graduation from an LCME-accredited medical school or an AOA-accredited institution within two years prior to applying.
• At least three letters of recommendation, including two from U.S.-trained physicians and one from a board-certified family physician.
• Completion of USMLE Step 2 (CK) or COMLEX Level 2-CE preferred before the interview.
• One year of formal clinical training in the U.S. involving direct patient care.
• International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must hold a valid ECFMG certificate and have passed USMLE exams 1, 2, and Clinical Skills.

It is important to note that the program does not sponsor any visas, and candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents to apply.

Competitiveness of the Program

The Family Medicine Residency at RWJMS is known to be competitive, particularly as it aims to attract the best candidates. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the program values applicants with various backgrounds and experiences.

Curriculum Overview

Residents participate in a variety of rotations that offer comprehensive training in family medicine. The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover various aspects of medical education that prepare residents for the future of family medicine, including clinical practice, community advocacy, research, and specialized fellowship training. The program emphasizes high-quality onsite rotations in a distinguished academic facility.

Residents engage in:

• Ambulatory training at the state-of-the-art Patient-Centered Medical Home at Family Medicine at Monument Square.
• Behavioral health training integrated into primary care.
• Hands-on experience in diverse community settings, catering to a wide range of socioeconomic and cultural patient populations.
• Fellowship tracks allow deeper engagement in specialty areas like Community Health, Sports Medicine, Reproductive Health, and Geriatrics.

All residents are encouraged to engage in research, as they graduate with at least one peer-reviewed Evidence-Based Medicine publication.

Clinical Training Sites

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital serves as the primary teaching hospital for the residency program. Ranked among the top hospitals in the country, it provides residents with access to numerous resources and a robust clinical experience. Other training sites include Family Medicine at Monument Square, Eric B. Chandler Health Center, and various partnerships with local healthcare facilities such as Parker Health Group.

Fellowship Tracks and Additional Opportunities

The Family Medicine Residency program offers multiple fellowship tracks that residents can choose to participate in during their training. These include:

• Community Health Track, focusing on underserved population health.
• Sports Medicine Track, providing exposure to athletic medicine.
• Reproductive Health Track with advanced training in women's health.
• Geriatrics Track, enhancing skills in elder care.

Each track is designed to equip residents with specialized skills and knowledge that are essential for their career paths.

Work-Life Balance and Resident Benefits

The residency program promotes a healthy work-life balance, offering four weeks of vacation per year along with personal days. Benefits also include a competitive salary, access to comprehensive healthcare, and educational resources such as book allowances and subscription services relevant to medical practice.

Conclusion

In summary, the Family Medicine Residency Program at RWJMS in New Brunswick provides residents with a robust, academically enriching environment complemented by practical clinical training. Advances in community health, integrated care models, and specialized fellowship opportunities shape the future leaders of family medicine.