Swedish Medical Center/Cherry Hill Program
Location:
Seattle, WASpecialty:
Addiction medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
4045440003The Addiction Medicine Track at Swedish Medical Center/Cherry Hill is tailored for motivated residents who seek comprehensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. This program encompasses a variety of clinical experiences and educational opportunities. Key components include:
Clinical Training Opportunities
Residents will engage in hands-on training at several specialized facilities, including:
- An acute detoxification center
- An inpatient treatment facility dedicated to pregnant women
- A local methadone maintenance center
This multidisciplinary approach ensures that residents understand the complexities of addiction, from medical to social and economic aspects, and learn harm reduction techniques that are crucial for patient care 1.
Educational Curriculum
Residents are expected to complete two electives focusing on Addiction Medicine, which provide significant depth and expertise in the field. Participation in a national conference is also encouraged, helping residents to stay updated on current trends and best practices. Additionally, each resident will develop a presentation on a specialized topic related to their rotations, further enhancing their teaching and communication skills as they share what they've learned with peers 1.
Research Opportunities
In alignment with the program's objectives, residents are encouraged to engage in research on addiction medicine topics. This research component complements their clinical rotations and aids in the development of critical thinking and scholarly abilities, preparing them for potential future academic roles 1.
Special Features of the Program
The Addiction Medicine Track emphasizes sensitivity to the social contexts surrounding substance use disorders. Residents learn to navigate the complexities of working with populations that often face multiple challenges, including homelessness, mental health issues, and lack of access to care 1.
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates including J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating entry for candidates outside the United States. However, there may be specific academic timelines and statistical criteria, such as not exceeding a certain number of failed STEP exams, that applicants should fulfill 1.
Competitiveness of the Program
The Admission to the Addiction Medicine Track is competitive, reflecting its commitment to attracting candidates who not only meet robust clinical standards but who also demonstrate a clear passion for addiction medicine. The program is known to be friendly to DO and IMG applicants, making it an inclusive option for diverse candidates from various backgrounds 1.
Community Outreach
Residents are further encouraged to act as resources for their local community, offering knowledge and support in addiction management and education. The program highlights the importance of community involvement and advocates for a strong physician presence in addressing public health challenges—particularly those associated with substance use disorders 1.
Additional Areas of Concentration
In addition to Addiction Medicine, Swedish Cherry Hill Family Medicine Residency offers several Areas of Concentration (AOCs), allowing residents to explore niches such as HIV Medicine, Reproductive Health, and Palliative Care. This enables graduates to tailor their residency experiences according to personal interests and career aspirations, significantly enhancing their professional profiles 2, 3, 4.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$78,500First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Seattle, WA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Seattle, WA
- Climate: Seattle has a mild, temperate climate with relatively cool and wet winters and warm, dry summers. It's known for its frequent rainfall and overcast skies.
- Population: Seattle has a diverse population with significant Asian, Hispanic, and African American communities.
- Safety: Seattle has a moderate crime rate compared to other U.S. cities of similar size. The city is generally considered safe, but like any urban area, caution should be exercised, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Cost of Living: Seattle has a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. However, salaries in the area are generally higher to compensate.
- Education: Seattle is home to a number of prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Washington and Seattle University.
- Activities: Seattle offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and water sports. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and a wide range of dining options.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia, are relatively close to Seattle. Portland is about 2.5-3 hours away by car, while Vancouver is about 2.5-3.5 hours away depending on traffic.
- Pros: Seattle is a tech hub with a strong job market in various industries, beautiful natural surroundings, a lively food scene, and a strong sense of community.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, and frequent rainfall may be viewed as drawbacks for some individuals.
Interview Questions
