University of Alabama Medical Center (Montgomery) Program

The Montgomery Internal Medicine Residency Program is designed to provide high-quality graduate medical education that emphasizes diverse clinical experiences in both inpatient and outpatient settings, alongside subspecialty and general medicine services. The program operates primarily out of Baptist Medical Center South, a community-based facility recognized for its excellence in cardiology, cancer, and stroke services. This setting allows residents to engage with a diverse patient population and gain significant exposure in various clinical environments.

The residency program includes a preliminary year program which delivers a robust foundation in general medicine. This program prepares trainees for the next stages of their medical careers by mirroring the rigorous training received by categorical interns, with the exception of continuity clinic responsibilities. The training is structured to foster an ideal balance between resident autonomy and faculty supervision, promoting the development of competent, compassionate, and independent physicians.

Curriculum

The curriculum is carefully crafted to train general internal medicine specialists and those aspiring to pursue subspecialty training. The focus on community-oriented clinical practice is paramount. The training experience involves rotations structured as follows:

PGY-1 (Categorical)

• Inpatient General Medicine: 27 weeks
• Intensive Care: 4 weeks
• Night Float: 4 weeks
• Sub-specialty / Electives: 4 weeks
• Continuity Clinic: 9 weeks
• Vacation: 3 weeks

PGY-1 (Preliminary)

• Inpatient General Medicine: 32 weeks
• Intensive Care: 4 weeks
• Night Float: 4 weeks
• Sub-specialty / Electives: 4 weeks
• Vacation: 3 weeks

PGY-2

• Inpatient General Medicine: 16 weeks
• Intensive Care: 4 weeks
• Night Float: 4 weeks
• Continuity Clinic: 9 weeks
• Sub-specialty / Electives: 16 weeks
• Vacation: 3 weeks

PGY-3

• Inpatient General Medicine: 12 weeks
• Intensive Care: 4 weeks
• Night Float: 4 weeks
• Continuity Clinic: 9 weeks
• Sub-specialty / Electives: 16 weeks
• Board Review: 4 weeks
• Vacation: 3 weeks

Elective rotations can encompass various specialties, including Allergy & Immunology, Cardiology, Psychiatry, and Women's Health, among others. Didactic activities are integral to the program, including Medical Grand Rounds, the Kennamer Distinguished Lecture series, and regular Teaching Rounds, which promote interactions with distinguished professors and healthcare professionals.

Application Requirements

The program offers both Categorical and Preliminary residency positions, with approximately seven Categorical and four Preliminary positions available each year. Each application must fulfill specific criteria, including:

• Graduation from an ACGME-approved medical school within the past five years
• Passing USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt (any failure necessitates additional review)
• Passing USMLE Step 2 CK on the first attempt with a minimum score of 200
• International applicants must possess an ECFMG certificate by the application deadline

The application package should include a CV, personal statement, USMLE scores, three letters of recommendation, a Medical School Performance Evaluation, and a copy of both the medical school diploma and transcript. A supplemental ERAS application is also required, through which additional information about the applicant's educational journey will be collected.

Visa Support

The residency program exclusively sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates (IMGs). These applicants must either hold a valid ECFMG certificate or possess a full, unrestricted license to practice in a U.S. jurisdiction. It is preferable that IMG candidates have earned at least one month of U.S. clinical experience, with at least one letter of recommendation supporting this experience.

Competitive Environment

The Montgomery Internal Medicine Residency is a competitive program, yet it maintains a friendly stance towards DO and IMG candidates. Stringent application requirements may pose challenges, but strong candidates with diverse backgrounds and experience generally find success in the application process.

Salary and Benefits

Residents in the program benefit from an array of salary and benefits packages. Specific offerings include:

• Annual food allowance of $1,300
• Support from clerical staff
• A minimum of four days off per month while on inpatient service
• Provision of two lab coats per year
• Free parking
• ACLS certification provided during residency

Comprehensive insurance plans are available, covering health, dental, and vision, facilitated through the Graduate Medical Education office.