Southern Illinois University (Alton) Program
Location:
Alton, ILSpecialty:
Family medicineACGME Code:
1201600712NRMP Program Code:
2922120C1The SIU Family Medicine Residency Program in Alton is a comprehensive training program that prepares residents to become skilled and compassionate family physicians capable of addressing the healthcare needs of diverse populations. Anchored in the historic city of Alton, Illinois, the program operates out of Alton Memorial Hospital and is committed to providing high-quality education and care.
Program Overview
The SIU Alton Family Medicine Residency Program is designed to train physicians with a focus on primary care in various settings. Through a combination of inpatient and outpatient experiences, residents gain exposure to crucial aspects of family medicine while serving the Greater Metro-East St. Louis area. The program leverages the expertise of the Department of Family & Community Medicine, which oversees residency training across multiple sites in Illinois, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
Curriculum and Rotations
The residency curriculum comprises essential clinical rotations, including longitudinal experiences in various fields such as Geriatric Medicine, Mental Health, Evidence-Based Medicine, and Patient Education. Starting from their first year, residents engage in continuity clinics to maintain patient relationships while gradually increasing their clinical responsibilities throughout the program.2
Moreover, residents are encouraged to choose elective rotations during their second and third years, allowing for specialized training in areas such as Cardiology, Obstetrics, and Sports Medicine. This flexibility enables residents to tailor their educational experiences according to their career aspirations while ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the spectrum of family medicine.8
Didactic Sessions
The program incorporates structured didactic sessions that complement clinical training. These sessions, which occur weekly, focus on a range of core topics including Practice Management, Wellness, and Morbidity and Mortality reviews. This integrated approach ensures that all residents achieve a shared understanding of essential family medicine concepts.7
Research and Academic Opportunities
In addition to clinical training, the program places a strong emphasis on scholarly activity and research. Residents have opportunities to engage in various research projects, often culminating in presentations and contributions to academic literature. The program's environment fosters a culture of inquiry, encouraging residents to develop critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for evidence-based practice.5
Community Engagement
The SIU Alton Family Medicine Residency Program is markedly community-oriented, addressing the healthcare needs of underserved populations in the region. Residents gain invaluable experience by working at the Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that provides care to vulnerable groups. This hands-on experience not only enriches their education but also instills a sense of advocacy and commitment to community service.6
Faculty and Mentorship
The success of the SIU Alton Family Medicine Residency Program is largely attributed to its dedicated faculty comprising experienced clinicians who are deeply committed to teaching and mentorship. Residents benefit from close interactions with faculty members, who serve as both instructors and mentors throughout their training.4
Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements
The program is open to international medical graduates and provides visa sponsorship opportunities for J-1 visas. Residents who require sponsorship should ensure they meet all application prerequisites as stipulated by the program. Typical eligibility criteria include graduation from medical school within a specified timeframe and limits on failed STEP examinations.3
Competitiveness
The SIU Family Medicine Residency Program is known to be competitive; however, it prides itself on being inclusive and supportive of osteopathic (DO) and international medical graduates (IMG). The program strongly emphasizes diversity and strives to create an environment that is welcoming to applicants from various educational backgrounds.1
Living in Alton, Illinois
Alton, a small city situated near the bustling St. Louis metropolitan area, offers residents a unique blend of charm and accessibility. The city’s rich history, community activities, and proximity to urban amenities enhance the overall living experience for residents and their families.9
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
62hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$63,302First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
10 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1, F1YOG Cutoff:
5Match History
2922120C1
2024
4 of 62023
4 of 42022
6 of 62021
6 of 62020
6 of 6Location
Alton, IL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Alton, IL
Alton, IL is a charming city located in the Metro East region of Illinois, known for its historical significance and scenic beauty.
Crime Rate and Safety
Alton has a moderate crime rate compared to other cities in the area. It has a mix of safe and less safe neighborhoods, so it's important to research the specific area you plan to live in.
Fun Activities
Residents of Alton can enjoy outdoor activities along the Mississippi River, visit historical landmarks like the Alton Museum of History and Art, and explore local shops and restaurants.
Climate
Alton experiences all four seasons with hot summers and cold winters. It's important to be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
Races and Population
The population of Alton is diverse, with a mix of different races and cultures contributing to the city's dynamic atmosphere.
Education
Alton offers good schooling options for families with children. There are both public and private schools in the area.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Alton is generally lower than in larger cities, making it an affordable option for residents. Housing costs and everyday expenses are reasonable.
Proximity to Larger Cities
Alton is located about 25 miles from St. Louis, Missouri, which can be reached in around 30-40 minutes by car. St. Louis offers a wider range of entertainment, dining, and cultural opportunities.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Rich history, access to outdoor activities, lower cost of living. Cons: Moderate crime rate in some areas, limited shopping and dining options compared to larger cities.
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