Swedish Medical Center Rural Program

Program Overview

The Swedish Cherry Hill Rural Training Program (RTP) in Family Medicine offers a unique 1+2 format where residents initially train for one year at the Swedish Cherry Hill FMR program in Seattle, WA. Following this year, residents move to Port Angeles, Washington, to spend the next two years in a rural clinical setting. The RTP program is specifically designed for residents committed to serving underserved rural populations and providing comprehensive primary care. This program attracts residents from various backgrounds who are passionate about improving health outcomes in rural communities 1.

Training Sites

The RTP program commenced in 2017, starting with two residents per class and expanding to three residents annually. In the first year, training takes place in urban, community-based clinics, predominantly focusing on inpatient and obstetrics rotations at the Swedish First Hill campus and specialty rotations at Seattle Children’s Hospital.

During the second and third years, residents relocate to Port Angeles, a small community situated at the base of the Olympic Mountains. This community serves a broader rural population, making it an ideal setting for comprehensive family medicine training. Residents practice primarily at the North Olympic Healthcare Network (NOHN), a Federally Qualified Health Center, and Olympic Medical Center (OMC), a 67-bed safety-net hospital 1.

Learning Opportunities

The curriculum is structured into 4-week blocks, tailored specifically for RTP residents, allowing them to integrate both outpatient and inpatient family medicine practices. Residents experience a longitudinal call structure that mimics the routine of rural practice, ensuring they gain continuity of care across various settings, including hospital, clinic, and emergency departments. This structure prepares them for similar rural environments post-graduation 1.

Through the RTP, residents become proficient in various procedures, gain experience in prenatal and obstetric care, and engage in community health assessments and advocacy. Training includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and procedures like endoscopy, colonoscopy, and advanced resuscitation techniques 1.

Curriculum

In the second year, residents go through specialized rotations including Behavioral Science, Community Medicine, and Emergency Medicine, ensuring they develop both clinical and administrative skills. This year includes dedicated training in geriatrics and gynecological care, enhancing their clinical competencies 3.

The third year allows for a more flexible curriculum with a combination of electives while maintaining longitudinal training experiences in inpatient and procedural care. Residents can tailor their electives to align with their career interests, opting for away rotations that include international opportunities 4.

Unique Aspects of the Program

RTP embraces a strong community focus, with residents engaging in community activism and advocacy projects, furthering their understanding of social determinants of health. This commitment is reflected in the program’s approach to integrating anti-racism and equitable practices within healthcare delivery 2.

Visa Support

The program is open to international medical graduates and provides visa sponsorship when necessary. Types of visas that can be sponsored include the J-1 and H-1B visas, making the program accessible to a diverse group of applicants 2.

Competitiveness

The RTP program is regarded as highly competitive with an emphasis on attracting residents who are dedicated to rural family medicine and community health. It welcomes applications from both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), making it a friendly option for DOs and IMGs alike 2.

Application Requirements

Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as demonstrating a commitment to serving rural communities. The program may also impose bounds on the number of attempts at standardized exams (e.g., USMLE or COMLEX), ensuring that candidates are adequately prepared for rigorous training. Additionally, there may be considerations related to the year of graduation from medical school 4.

Community Engagement

The rich history of Port Angeles provides a strong foundation for community engagement within the RTP. Understanding the diverse population, including local tribes, highlights the importance of culturally competent care. Residents are encouraged to take part in community activities and initiatives that promote health and well-being 3.