St Elizabeth's Medical Center Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, located in Boston, provides an enriching educational experience that blends extensive clinical training with robust academic opportunities. Established in a team-based environment where collegiality and respect are paramount, the program is committed to the development of skilled internists capable of practicing in various medical settings.

St. Elizabeth's is affiliated with Boston University School of Medicine and maintains a continuous teaching partnership with Tufts University School of Medicine, allowing residents to engage in medical education by teaching medical students who rotate through the facility. The residency program offers a range of training options, including categorical and preliminary positions, featuring 16 categorical and eight preliminary slots each year, all within an ACGME-accredited framework 1.

Program Structure

The curriculum follows a "4+2" block schedule, where every third two-week block is designated for outpatient rotations. This design aims to balance inpatient responsibilities with outpatient continuity clinics, thereby fostering a smooth transition between care settings. The first year comprises a comprehensive exposure to clinical medicine, covering various specialties such as general medicine, cardiology, emergency medicine, neurology, and geriatrics 8.

The intern year includes rotations in General Medicine and specialized units such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Residents gain hands-on experience through a state-of-the-art 28-bed ICU that provides care for patients with diverse and complex medical conditions. Each team of residents is closely supervised by dedicated faculty mentors, fostering an interactive learning environment 6.

Didactic Training

The residency incorporates a wide array of didactic sessions, including morning and noon conferences, journal clubs, board reviews, and PGY specific academic sessions based on resident interest. Morning conferences encourage residents to present clinical cases and engage in discussions focusing on evidence-based approaches, promoting critical thinking skills essential for board preparation 3.4

Scholarly Activities

Residents at St. Elizabeth’s are supported in their scholarly pursuits, with access to dedicated faculty mentors who assist in research and clinical projects. The program hosts an Annual Research Day, showcasing residents' research endeavors and allowing them to present at local and national conferences. Residents are encouraged to engage in quality improvement projects as a part of their training, integrating practical enhancements in clinical practice with patient care 7.

Wellness and Support

The wellbeing of residents is prioritized through the implementation of a health and wellness program that promotes resilience and work-life balance. Monthly wellness conferences, peer support structures, and a commitment to fostering a collegial environment are central to the program’s philosophy 2.

Special Application Requirements

The program is IMG-friendly and accepts both US graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), provided applicants have passed both components of the USMLE and have clinical experience in the US or accredited institutions. J-1 visa sponsorship is available for those who require it, and the program has a competitive application process that includes specific standards regarding a maximum of failed STEP exams 5.

Alumni Success

St. Elizabeth’s graduates successfully transition into various fellowship programs or high-demand positions within primary care and hospital medicine. Over the years, alumni have matched into prestigious programs in fields such as hematology/oncology, infectious disease, and cardiology 9.