Rutgers Health/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Program

The Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM) program at Rutgers Health/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School offers a comprehensive and individualized training experience for residents. This program is designed to equip trainees with the necessary skills to address health issues influenced by environmental and occupational factors. The OEM program combines rigorous academic training with practical, real-world applications.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured to provide residents with a solid foundation in the principles of occupational and environmental medicine. Training in this program encompasses critical areas including:1

• Clinical Rotations: Residents participate in various clinical rotations that expose them to diverse settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community health organizations.
• Didactics: Regular didactic sessions complement clinical training, covering topics including toxicology, epidemiology, and industrial hygiene.
• Research: Residents engage in research activities, supporting the development of evidence-based practices in the field.

Clinical Rotations

The OEM program emphasizes experiential learning through clinical rotations that take place in various settings. These include:

• Clinical Settings: Residents will gain experience in hospitals, private practices, and public health organizations, enhancing their ability to assess and manage occupational-related health issues.
• Community Outreach: The program supports involvement in community service and outreach programs, ensuring that residents understand the broader aspects of public health and community medicine.1

Research Opportunities

The OEM program encourages and fosters residents' involvement in research activities. This includes:

• Residency Research Committee: Established to direct and monitor the research outcomes of residents, promoting a culture of inquiry and evidence-based practice.
• Annual Research Day: An annual event where residents present their research findings, allowing them to engage in academic discussion and networking opportunities with faculty and peers.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This program differentiates itself through a number of unique offerings:

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Residents have opportunities to collaborate with various disciplines and specialties, fostering a well-rounded understanding of occupational and environmental medicine in different contexts.1
• Mentorship Opportunities: Residents are paired with faculty mentors who guide them through their training, providing support for their professional development and research endeavors.

Training Sites

The OEM program operates across several training sites, facilitating exposure to a wide range of experiences:

• Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital: A 965-bed academic medical center providing extensive resources and clinical exposure.
• Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center: A community hospital setting offering experience in primary care and patient management.
• Community Health Centers: Engagement with community health platforms that emphasize preventative medicine and public health initiatives.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the OEM program offers visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating entry into the United States for training purposes. This support is essential for creating a diverse cohort of residents who can contribute uniquely to the field of occupational and environmental medicine.

Competitiveness of the Program

The program is known to be competitive, welcoming applications from both U.S.-trained MDs and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program values diverse educational backgrounds and experiences, leading to a well-rounded selection process.

Special Application Requirements

To ensure a high caliber of applicants, the OEM program has specific application requirements. Applicants typically must have graduated from medical school within a set timeframe, showing evidence of successful completion of required examinations such as the USMLE. Previous research experience or a demonstrated commitment to the field of occupational or environmental health may also play a role in the application process.