The Payson Family Medicine Residency Program, sponsored by the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, offers a distinctive training opportunity in a rural setting. This developing residency program is designed to equip residents with the skills necessary for full-spectrum family medicine practice in underserved communities, specifically targeting the healthcare needs of rural Arizona. This program seeks motivated individuals who aspire to serve in rural health settings and shape the future of family medicine in the region.
Payson serves as the ideal backdrop for this program, being located at the scenic entrance to the Mogollon Rim and surrounded by the expansive Tonto National Forest. Residents will benefit from a mild climate and a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping, contributing to a well-rounded lifestyle that balances professional commitments with personal well-being 1.
Curriculum
The residency program's curriculum is structured to ensure comprehensive training across various medical disciplines. The primary training sites include Banner Payson Medical Center, Banner - University Medical Center Phoenix, and Banner Children's at Desert. Approximately one-third of the training will take place at the urban Banner University Medical Center, while the majority of the experience will occur at the rural Banner Payson Medical Center 2.
The residency is organized into three progressive years with a block schedule. During the PGY-1 year, residents will rotate through essential services such as rural inpatient care, emergency medicine, obstetrics, and pediatrics in both rural and urban settings. In PGY-2, the focus shifts to advanced rural OB and newborn care, geriatric services, and urban hospitals, while PGY-3 allows for further specialization and elective opportunities 2.
Training Environment
The Banner Payson Medical Center is designated as a critical access hospital, providing residents with direct experience in a community-focused environment. The residency program emphasizes one-on-one learning opportunities, given the small resident cohort of only two residents per class. This facilitates mentorship and close interactions with faculty members who are dedicated to teaching 1.
Residents will also participate in a student-run free medical clinic, further enriching their clinical skills and fostering community involvement. Additional training highlights include prenatal care, surgical assistance opportunities, and sports medicine experiences at local schools 1.
Faculty
The residency program boasts a committed and experienced faculty passionate about teaching. These educators bring diverse clinical experiences and a strong emphasis on mentorship, ensuring residents receive personalized guidance throughout their training 1.
Community Involvement
Payson’s integration with the surrounding community is a unique aspect of the program. Residents will engage in community activities and local health initiatives, further enhancing their understanding of rural health dynamics and patient-centered care. Payson is known for its rich outdoor activities and cultural experiences, including the historic Payson Pro Rodeo, which reflects the community's vibrant character and lifestyle 1.
Application Requirements
The program has specific application requirements that applicants must fulfill. Applications are accepted exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and all candidates must be registered with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Applicants should have successfully completed the USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 and provide a dean's letter along with two to four letters of recommendation and a personal statement highlighting their interest in Family Medicine.
For international medical graduates (IMGs), additional requirements include ECFMG certification, proof of having completed at least one year of clinical training in a teaching hospital affiliated with a residency program in the U.S., and no failures on any USMLE exam. The program does not offer visa sponsorships but considers J-1 visas for qualified candidates 4.
Competitiveness
The Payson Family Medicine Residency Program is both competitive and welcoming to diverse backgrounds, including DO candidates and international medical graduates. While the overall competitiveness of family medicine residency programs may vary, the unique draw of rural training coupled with the comprehensive curriculum makes this program an attractive option for many applicants 4.
Website
Director
Roberta Matern, MDProgram Director Appointed Since January 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,061First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
Unlimited daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
3Location
Payson, AZ 85541
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Payson, AZ
Overview: Payson, Arizona, is a small town located in the scenic Mogollon Rim region. Known for its natural beauty, it offers a unique setting for a medical residency program.
- Crime Rate and Safety: Payson is generally considered a safe town with a lower crime rate compared to national averages. The community is tight-knit, contributing to a sense of security among residents.
- Fun Activities: Payson offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Nearby attractions include the Tonto National Forest and several lakes such as Woods Canyon Lake. The town also hosts annual events like the Payson Rodeo.
- Climate: Payson has a mild climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers tend to be warm with temperatures averaging in the 80s°F (27-32°C), while winters can drop to the 30s°F (1-4°C) at night, with occasional snowfall.
- Race and Population: Payson has a population of around 15,000 residents, with a primarily Caucasian demographic. The town has a growing Hispanic community, reflective of the broader diversity of Arizona.
- Education: The town has access to public schools within the Payson Unified School District. For higher education, universities are located in larger cities nearby.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Payson is generally lower than national averages, particularly in housing. However, access to amenities may be limited compared to larger urban areas.
- Nearby Cities: The nearest larger city is Phoenix, which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive south. Phoenix is a major metropolitan area, offering extensive amenities, cultural activities, sports events, and educational institutions.
Pros and Cons of Living in Payson, AZ
- Pros:
- Beautiful natural surroundings with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Lower cost of living compared to urban centers.
- Safe, small-town atmosphere with a sense of community.
- Cons:
- Limited access to amenities such as shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Longer drives to major cities for specialized services and cultural experiences.
- Job opportunities can be limited outside of seasonal industries.
Interview Questions
