University at Buffalo/Sisters of Charity Hospital Program

Family Medicine Residency Training Program at Sisters of Charity Hospital

The Sisters of Charity Hospital Family Medicine Residency Training Program is designed to equip residents with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for practicing family medicine. The program emphasizes a community-oriented approach and offers numerous unique aspects that foster both professional development and personal well-being. The program boasts a team-oriented environment, where the shared passion for healthcare and empathy for patients are central, creating a nurturing learning atmosphere.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum at the Sisters of Charity Hospital Family Medicine Program consists of a three-year schedule broken into 13 modules, typically spanning four-week intervals. Each year includes four weeks of vacation time, and elective rotations are available in a variety of specialties, including allergy/immunology, anesthesiology, endocrinology, and more. The flexibility to explore various interests in medicine allows residents to tailor their training to suit individual career goals, including robust opportunities in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which is emphasized throughout the program 1.

Training Sites

Training predominantly occurs at the Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, NY, which is recognized for its extensive teaching heritage and a state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit. Residents also have exposure to Mercy Hospital of Buffalo for specific rotations, including internal medicine and cardiac care. The continuity clinic for family medicine residents is held at Primary Care of Western New York (PCWNY), facilitating hands-on learning in outpatient settings starting from the first year 7.

Research and Academic Commitment

Residents in the program are encouraged to engage in research projects and academic discussions through the availability of resources such as lectures, journal clubs, and guest presentations as part of weekly educational activities. This commitment to continuous learning aims to maintain high performance and success in board examinations 10.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program enjoys a unique differentiator with its osteopathic recognition, allowing residents who are osteopathic graduates to immerse themselves in a training model that aligns with osteopathic principles and practices. The continuous accreditation by the ACGME and a robust focus on global health initiatives pledge a commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. Furthermore, the program fosters a strong sense of community through team-building activities and support systems among residents 1; 2.

Benefits and Support

Benefits available to residents in this program are consistent with those provided by the University at Buffalo’s medical education office, ensuring competitive compensation and support structures. The program is DO-friendly, actively considering applicants from osteopathic schools and encouraging candidates from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates (IMGs) 8.

Application Requirements

The application process is conducted through ERAS, requiring completion of necessary components such as personal statements, medical school transcripts, and COMLEX/USMLE scores. Applicants are advised to communicate their interest in the osteopathic components of the training and may be asked to participate in interviews with an osteopathic committee. The program provides sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas for international medical graduates 6.

Living and Working in Buffalo

Buffalo, NY, serves as an attractive location for residents, featuring an affordable cost of living and rich cultural experiences. The city is experiencing rejuvenation and offers numerous recreational, culinary, and artistic opportunities, making it an ideal environment for both work-life balance and family raising 9.

Global Health Initiatives

Emphasizing global health and community outreach, the residency promotes participation in local and international mission trips, providing residents with the opportunity to apply their skills in various settings while making a meaningful impact. This global perspective enriches the training and broadens residents’ understanding of healthcare gaps and various patient needs 1.