University of Connecticut Program

The UConn Internal Medicine – Geriatrics integrated residency and fellowship offers a unique and comprehensive training program designed to mold future leaders in Geriatric Medicine. The program integrates fellowship experiences within the standard Internal Medicine residency training, enabling residents to attain critical geriatric competencies across a four-year curriculum.

Program Structure

The residency consists of a traditional four-year format where the first three years focus on Internal Medicine, while the fourth year emphasizes Geriatric Medicine. This structure allows trainees to acquire geriatric competencies during specific ambulatory care blocks throughout their PGY1 to PGY3 years, freeing up time in PGY4 for professional development and research opportunities, outlined in the program description.

By dedicating 6 to 9 months of the PGY4 year primarily to Geriatric Medicine, residents are afforded the opportunity to see patients within skilled nursing facilities and community outpatient settings, ensuring practical exposure to diverse patient populations.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum emphasizes a blend of clinical training, bedside learning, and access to online educational resources. Key components of the program include:

• Clinical skills assessments focusing on history-taking, physical examination, and patient management.
• Opportunities for engaging in scholarly activities and clinical research, particularly through the Clinical Research Track designed for three selected residents who wish to focus their training in academia.
• Exceptional mentorship, with facilitated guidance from the Center on Aging faculty.

Rotations

The program features varied rotations across multiple disciplines, allowing residents to build a holistic knowledge base. Specific training rotations highlight the integration of geriatrics with core Internal Medicine practices, ensuring readiness for both clinical and academic pursuits.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to participate actively in research, with support available for projects that focus on clinical innovations in Geriatrics. The program partners with the Connecticut Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, offering trainees access to resources for biomedical research.

Application Process

To apply to the integrated residency and geriatric fellowship, applicants must submit a complete ERAS application that includes an MSPE, medical school transcript, personal statement, and three Letters of Recommendation. The program conducts a holistic review of applications but requires applicants to meet certain criteria, including:

• Passing USMLE or COMLEX Parts 1 and 2 on the first attempt.
• Medical school graduation should be within five years of residency application.
• For international medical graduates, a valid ECFMG certificate is mandatory.

Additionally, the program will require candidates to complete Acuity Insights Assessments as part of the interview selection process.

Visa Support and Requirements

The program offers sponsorship for J-1 visas for international medical graduates who are not U.S. permanent residents. This is crucial for non-resident applicants seeking to pursue their medical training in the United States.

Competitiveness

The UConn Internal Medicine – Geriatrics integrated residency and fellowship program is considered highly competitive, especially for positions within the Geriatrics track. The inclusion of J-1 visa sponsorship and flexibility for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) makes this program an appealing option for foreign-trained physicians seeking opportunities in the U.S.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program emphasizes personal well-being and professional growth through various support initiatives, including dedicated faculty mentoring, well-being programs, and attendance at educational conferences. Additionally, the respectful and diverse patient demographic at UConn Health prepares graduates for both hospital and outpatient practice, ensuring comprehensive residency training in various socio-economic settings.

The UConn Internal Medicine – Geriatrics program thus presents a robust framework for training physicians in both internal and geriatric medicine, equipping them to serve effectively in this essential field of medical practice.