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University of Kansas School of Medicine/CHCSEK (Pittsburg) Program
Overview
The University of Kansas School of Medicine offers a Family Medicine Rural Training Track program based in Pittsburg, Kansas, in collaboration with the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC-SEK). This ACGME-accredited residency program is designed to prepare residents for a career in family medicine, with a specific focus on serving rural, underserved populations.
Program Structure
The residency consists of a 1+2 training model where the first year (PGY1) is spent at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) in Kansas City, where residents gain extensive experience managing complex and acute cases. The subsequent two years (PGY2 and PGY3) take place at CHC-SEK in Pittsburg, providing residents with a well-rounded experience in a rural Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) setting, enabling them to practice full-scope family medicine.
1Training Sites
Residents rotate primarily between three locations:
- University of Kansas Medical Center: The urban hub where residents engage with acute care in a highly academic and complex medical environment.
- Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas: This site offers resources tailored to rural healthcare needs and emphasizes community medicine.
- Mercy Hospital Pittsburg: Residents gain experience in acute medical care, further enriching their understanding of healthcare delivery in rural contexts.
Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum is comprehensive and flexible, allowing residents to tailor their education according to their interests in rural family medicine. Major components of the curriculum include:
- PGY1: Residents are introduced to family medicine with rotations in inpatient care, obstetrics, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and surgery.
- PGY2 and PGY3: Increasing focus on outpatient care, creating opportunities to develop practice management skills, and participating in electives relevant to rural healthcare needs.
Unique Program Features
The program boasts several unique aspects aimed at enriching resident training:
- Unopposed Training: Being the only residency program in the Pittsburg area means fewer competition pressures. Residents receive focused mentorship and ample opportunities for procedures.
- Supportive Learning Environment: The program actively seeks and incorporates feedback from current residents and faculty to continually enhance the curriculum and experience.
- Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care: Residents work alongside a diverse team including specialists in dental health, behavioral health, and addiction treatment, enhancing their learning experience.
- Access to Community Services: CHC-SEK collaborates with schools and community organizations, providing residents with opportunities for outreach and education.
Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to participate in research initiatives that address significant health disparities affecting rural communities. Research activities foster a deeper understanding of community-based health issues, which enhances residents' competencies as future family medicine practitioners.
4Visa Sponsorship
The program primarily sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates. However, it does not provide sponsorship for H-1B visa applications, making it crucial for potential applicants to be aware of their visa status and requirements before applying.
5Application Requirements
To apply for the program, candidates must meet certain prerequisites:
- Complete USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK or COMLEX equivalent with passing scores, preferably on the first attempt.
- Graduation from an LCME or AOA accredited medical school within the last 3 years.
- Permanent residency or citizenship status, or eligibility to obtain a J-1 visa through ECFMG.
- Valid ECFMG certificate for international medical graduates.
- Completing the application process exclusively via ERAS, including a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a dean's letter.
Competitiveness
The program is considered competitive, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded application that showcases a commitment to family medicine, particularly in rural settings. While the program welcomes applications from both DO and IMG candidates, it is highly encouraged to demonstrate a strong passion for serving underserved communities.
7Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
2, 2, 2 (3 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: January 28, 2026)
Composition [2]
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Training
Fellowship Rate:50% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:1.5X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: 10 days [1]
First Year Paid Vacation: 15 days [1]
First Year Salary: $67,647 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 16 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 60 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: 219–260 [2]
Visa Sponsorship:J1 [2]
YOG Cutoff:2 [1]
Race / Ethnicity
No race data available.
Gender
No gender data available.
Incoming Schools
No incoming school data available.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Signals
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
Match History [4]
Roster
Location
Kansas City, KS [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing — Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime — All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
Living in Kansas City, KS
Crime Rate and Safety
Kansas City, KS, like any other city, has its share of crime, but certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's recommended to research specific areas for safety ratings.
Fun Activities
Kansas City offers a variety of attractions such as museums, parks, shopping centers, and restaurants. The city is known for its jazz music scene and delicious barbecue.
Climate
Kansas City experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are pleasant with moderate temperatures.
Races and Population
Kansas City has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, creating a vibrant community.
Education
There are several educational institutions in the area, including universities and colleges, providing opportunities for learning and growth.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Kansas City is generally lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
Nearby Bigger Cities
Kansas City, MO is just across the state line from Kansas City, KS. The driving time between the two cities is around 20-30 minutes, offering access to a larger metropolitan area with more entertainment options.
Pros
- Affordable cost of living
- diverse population
- variety of fun activities
- and proximity to a bigger city for more opportunities.
Cons
- Crime rates in some areas
- extreme weather conditions during summer and winter.
FAQ
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References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/1201900001
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/a4eed346-96b6-0fe5-279d-cc53275db267
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=010XX00US
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr