University at Buffalo Program

The Preventive Medicine Residency Program at the University at Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences offers an innovative and comprehensive training pathway for medical professionals looking to specialize in preventive medicine and public health. This program is particularly appealing for physicians who have completed three years of residency in primary care specialties such as family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, or med-peds.

One of the unique aspects of the program includes the opportunity for residents to earn a fully funded Master’s degree in Public Health while also preparing for board certification in public health and preventive medicine. This combination of academic and practical training ensures that residents are well-equipped to make impactful contributions to health care systems and to individual patient care.

Curriculum

The curriculum spans two years and builds a strong foundation in both clinical practice and public health. The training is designed to prepare residents to promote health and well-being while effectively reducing the risks of disease, disability, and mortality at both individual and population levels. The residency program emphasizes experiential learning through various rotations and hands-on clinical opportunities, providing a well-rounded education in preventive medicine 1.

Training Sites

The University at Buffalo's residency program features numerous teaching sites that help residents develop the necessary skills for adapting to diverse health care settings. These sites are strategically chosen to provide opportunities for robust patient interactions and to cultivate applicable skills in varied professional environments 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is strongly integrated into the training model of this residency program. Residents are encouraged to engage in research projects that align with their clinical interests, and the program provides support through scholarships and awards for their research endeavors 1. Collaborating with physician-scientists allows residents to be at the forefront of developments in public health and preventive medicine.

Application Process and Requirements

Due to the rigorous nature of the training program, it is highly competitive. Typically, the program accepts only two to three residents each year, making the selection process very selective. Applicants are required to possess a medical license (MD or DO), have successfully completed three years of a U.S.-accredited internal medicine residency, and must hold U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or have sponsorship for a J-1 or H-1B visa. Additionally, applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, USMLE scores, and medical school transcripts 2.

Visa Support

The residency program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, making it accessible to international medical graduates who meet the eligibility criteria. This support is crucial for talented individuals looking to pursue a career in preventive medicine while working in the United States 2.

Living in Buffalo

The program is located in Buffalo, known as the “City of Good Neighbors,” which offers a rich cultural experience, affordable living expenses, and a variety of recreational activities. The community is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent place for residents to establish both personal and professional connections 1.

Core Values

The program upholds core values centered around respect, excellence in care, collaboration, and access and equity. These principles guide the residents as they work towards becoming exemplary leaders in the field of public health 1.

Competitive Nature of the Program

Given its focus on public health and preventive medicine, the University at Buffalo’s residency program is seen as highly competitive. Applicants not only need to demonstrate a robust academic background but also a commitment to advancing public health initiatives. The program's dual focus on clinical training and public health education sets it apart from traditional residency training programs 2.