Tulane University Program

The Tulane University Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program offers a comprehensive training experience that prepares residents to become proficient in both internal medicine and pediatrics. This unique program emphasizes the integration of both disciplines while immersing residents in the culturally rich and diverse environment of New Orleans.

Program Overview

The program aims to train adaptable and diverse residents who are passionate about addressing health disparities and providing patient-centered care across the lifespan. Residents are exposed to a variety of healthcare systems that highlight the challenges of working in an under-resourced environment. The curriculum emphasizes resilience and flexibility, attributes essential for success in both the medical field and the vibrant culture of New Orleans 1.

Curriculum Structure

The residency curriculum consists of alternating rotations between internal medicine and pediatrics, amounting to a total of 24 months in each specialty. Residents work at multiple prominent institutions, ensuring a well-rounded experience:

• Internal Medicine Rotations: Residents rotate through three major hospitals: East Jefferson General Hospital, University Medical Center of New Orleans, and the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System. Each of these facilities provides a diverse patient population and a wide range of medical specialties.
• Pediatrics Rotations: Training occurs at Children’s Hospital of New Orleans and Tulane Lakeside Hospital, offering exposure to critical care units such as the PICU and Level IV NICU.

This integrated training model is designed to ensure residents develop both the skills needed for immediate patient care as well as the competencies necessary for continuous, lifelong learning as physicians 8.

Clinical Experience and Continuity Clinic

The program includes a continuity clinic that operates within University Medical Center, where residents manage primary care for patients of all ages. Each resident maintains their own panel, allowing them to foster long-term patient relationships and gain experience in comprehensive care delivery 8.

BAYOU Bridges Program

An innovative feature of the residency is the BAYOU Bridges Program, which addresses the behavioral and mental health needs of adolescents and young adults. This program includes workshops and clinical rotations focused on mental health and addiction medicine, where residents learn to recognize and manage behavioral health issues in a primary care setting 2. The training also promotes community service by preparing residents to provide contextualized and trauma-informed care.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Training at Tulane encompasses a strong community engagement component, whereby residents are not just participants in the medical education process but also advocates for the communities they serve. Engagement with vulnerable populations is emphasized, recognizing social determinants of health and the impact of systemic inequities 1.

Research Opportunities

Residents have significant opportunities to engage in research, with guidance available in various areas, including quality improvement projects and health equity research. Participation in research is encouraged and supported throughout the residency, enabling residents to contribute to the advancement of knowledge within the field 8.

Visa Support

The program is friendly toward international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides visa support by sponsoring the J-1 visa for qualified candidates. This facilitates the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences in the program.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission to the Tulane University Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program is competitive. Candidates are evaluated based on their academic records, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and performance in clinical rotations. Special application requirements may include a specific year of graduation and limitations on failed STEP exams, making it essential for prospective residents to be aware of these criteria. The program encourages applications from a diverse applicant pool, including DOs and IMGs, to foster a rich educational environment 1.

Workshops and Professional Development

Residents participate in a series of workshops aimed at enhancing their medical skills and competencies. Workshops cover vital topics such as implicit bias, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and shared decision-making. These sessions are designed to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the medical and social dimensions of healthcare 3. Furthermore, the program offers faculty-led round tables and social wellness activities to promote interaction and mentorship outside of clinical settings.

Conclusion

The Tulane University Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program is designed for those who are committed to serving diverse populations, embracing challenges, and pursuing excellence in patient care. Through a rigorous training regimen that incorporates community engagement, behavioral health training, and robust clinical experiences, residents are equipped with the tools necessary for both personal and professional success in their medical careers.