University of Hawaii Program

The University of Hawaii Family Medicine Residency Program is a distinguished community-based 7-7-7 residency program designed to train family physicians who are adept at addressing the health concerns of diverse populations. Sponsored by the UH John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM), this program offers training at Pali Momi Medical Center located in Aiea, making it an ideal environment to learn from patients with a broad spectrum of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.

This program aims to promote health equity, particularly focusing on reproductive health equity and justice as part of its RHEDI designation. Residents are engaged in a wide variety of training experiences, including maternal-child health, geriatrics, addiction training, and outreach services for the unhoused population in Hawaii.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is structured to promote comprehensive education over three years. The first year, or PGY-1, includes key rotations in various settings such as: Medical Intensive Care, OB/GYN (Labor & Delivery), General Surgery, Emergency Medicine, and Behavioral Health, among others. The PGY-2 year features more focused rotations like Pediatrics, Geriatrics, and Family Medicine and Behavioral Health. By PGY-3, residents are expected to engage in more independent practice, participating in critical rotations that prepare them to enter practice as leaders in family medicine. Weekly didactic sessions are also a hallmark of the program, allowing for continued education and professional development throughout residency.

Rotation Sites

Training occurs at various affiliated sites that enrich the residency experience. The Pali Momi Medical Center serves as a primary training site, where residents manage their own Family Medicine Inpatient Service, while Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children is utilized for obstetrics and pediatric rotations. Queen’s Health System further diversifies training, providing critical care learning experiences in their Medical ICU. With over 100 community faculty members from various practice backgrounds, residents are offered various opportunities for mentorship and learning in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Research and Community Engagement

The program recognizes the significance of research in enhancing medical practice. Faculty members are involved in numerous research projects, grant acquisition, and program development initiatives. This research focus extends to enriching the experience of residents and ensuring they are not only practitioners but also scholars in the field. Community engagement initiatives, such as health outreach programs to local schools and organizations, allow residents to apply their skills while also contributing to local health disparities.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program's commitment to diversity, equity, and social justice underpins all training and teaching methodologies. The faculty and residents come from a wide array of backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of varying experiences and perspectives in providing comprehensive patient care.

Application Process and Requirements

To apply for the residency, candidates must use the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), providing transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that articulates their motivation for pursuing family medicine at this program. Candidates must also demonstrate fluency in both oral and written English. Importantly, international medical graduates must be ECFMG certified. The program offers J-1 visa sponsorship, accommodating IMGs seeking training in the United States.

Competitiveness

The University of Hawaii Family Medicine Residency Program is known to be competitive. It welcomes candidates who exhibit strong communication and teamwork skills, with a distinct commitment to serving the populations of Hawaii and the Pacific Basin.