St Peter Hospital (Elma) Program

The Providence St. Peter Family Medicine Residency Program provides a distinguished unopposed residency experience at a community-based hospital, allowing the training of full-scope family physicians within a supportive and comprehensive educational environment. Celebrated for more than 30 years, the program is recognized as a high-level Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) and uniquely positions residents in a multidisciplinary setting comprising pharmacists, behaviorists, and physical therapists to enhance patient care.

Situated in Olympia, Washington, the residency program allows access to stunning natural landscapes, including the Olympic and Mt. Rainier National Parks. Residents have access to major urban centers such as Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland, enriching both personal and professional experiences.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum emphasizes a 'Clinic First' model that integrates outpatient and inpatient experiences seamlessly. The educational approach focuses on developing residents’ autonomy through progressive training across three years:

• Year One: An introductory year centered around inpatient rotations, allowing residents to consolidate their foundational skills in inpatient OB, pediatrics, and family medicine, along with one clinic day per week.
• Year Two: Enrichment of outpatient continuity with the integration of community experiences. This period further strengthens residents' relationships with their patient panel.
• Year Three: A longitudinal curriculum emphasizing intensive outpatient training, while allowing opportunities for electives and specialty experiences.

Specialty clinics are an integral part of the curriculum and cater to various patient needs, including Lifestyle Medicine, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), and Obstetrics, contributing to the program's comprehensive training approach.

Daily Schedule

The daily schedule is structured to promote effective patient interaction and learning. Residents engage in extended outpatient clinic hours while balancing necessary inpatient responsibilities through clearly defined work hours. A typical day begins with a morning huddle and concludes with patient care duties, and residents consistently work with a dedicated medical assistant throughout their time in residency.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Residents are encouraged to partake in scholarly activities, enhancing both their skills and professional network. The program actively promotes activities that allow residents to engage with their communities, focusing on addressing health disparities and advancing public health initiatives.

Visa Support

The program is supportive of international medical graduates (IMGs) and accepts ECFMG-sponsored visas. However, it does not sponsor J1 or H1B visas directly, which is crucial for international applicants to consider.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The residency program is competitive, offering only seven positions per year. Candidates must submit their applications through ERAS with specific requirements, including:

• Completion of USMLE or COMLEX within required attempts.
• A minimum of 8 weeks of family medicine rotations in a US-based practice.
• Letters of recommendation, including one from a family medicine physician.
• General eligibility for working in the US by specified deadlines.

These requirements, combined with the program’s popularity, contribute to its competitive nature, welcoming applicants from varied backgrounds including DO and IMG candidates. The program has shown a commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion within its training community.

Resident Wellness and Support

Recognizing the importance of well-being in medical training, the program actively promotes a supportive community through wellness committees, regular retreats, and a myriad of wellness activities. There’s also access to a fitness center and support groups tailored to the specific needs of different resident classes.

Living in Olympia

Residents benefit from a vibrant community filled with outdoor activities and cultural experiences, characterized by a friendly atmosphere and various local events. Olympia provides a unique blend of small-town charm and urban convenience, enhancing the overall residency experience.

Financial and Employment Benefits

The residency offers competitive salaries for each year of training, alongside benefits such as relocation allowances, meal stipends, insurance, education reimbursements, and paid time off. This comprehensive benefits package reflects the program’s commitment to the residents’ financial well-being.