University of Kentucky College of Medicine Program

Welcome to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine's General Preventive Medicine – Public Health Residency Program. This fully accredited ACGME residency addresses the growing need for preventive medicine and public health specialists in managing chronic and infectious diseases. The program is designed to equip resident physicians with essential skills to develop, lead, and implement health policies and population-based health promotion strategies tailored to the diverse communities in Kentucky and beyond. The overarching goal of the program is to produce knowledgeable, effective, and well-rounded professionals dedicated to improving health outcomes.

Program Structure

The residency spans two years, known as PGY2 and PGY3, and combines academic coursework with practicum rotations. Residents will earn a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the UK College of Public Health, which is a nationally recognized institution known for its strong focus on public health education. This dual approach not only enhances the residents' clinical skills but also provides a robust theoretical framework necessary for effective public health practice 1.

Part of the residency experience includes completing a minimum of 80 half-days of clinical care, with opportunities to participate in additional elective clinical experiences. Required practicum sites include esteemed institutions such as the Kentucky Department for Public Health, Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, and Lexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center, among others 1.

Academic Components

The academic component encompasses a diverse range of courses aimed at providing comprehensive knowledge in public health practices. Key subjects include health services administration, environmental health sciences, biostatistics, epidemiology, and social and behavioral sciences. Weekly didactic sessions are structured to immerse residents in real-world applications of preventive medicine principles, promoting critical thinking and decision-making skills. Journal clubs facilitate in-depth analysis of the current research landscape in preventive medicine and public health 1.

The capstone research project is a significant requirement that allows residents to explore specific areas of interest deeply and contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Residents are encouraged to present their findings at annual professional conferences, enhancing their professional development and networking opportunities 1.

Unique Practicum Experiences

Each resident collaborates with the program director to design a unique practicum experience, which may include rotations at institutions such as the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, Kentucky Health Information Exchange, or the UK Center for Health Services Research. These rotations focus on specialized areas such as integrative medicine and health policy, providing tailored experiences that align with the residents' career aspirations and public health needs 1.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the residency program is highly competitive. Candidates must submit all applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including a CV, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. Preference is given to applicants who have graduated from medical school within the last five years, possess primary care clinical experience in the U.S. within the past year, and have passed USMLE or COMLEX Step I and II with no more than two failures allowed 4.

For international medical graduates, current ECFMG certification is necessary, and the program exclusively sponsors J-1 visas 4. Interviews will be conducted virtually, allowing candidates flexibility during the selection process, and are typically scheduled between October and February.

Competitiveness

The UK General Preventive Medicine – Public Health Residency Program is highly competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants, including domestic and international medical graduates. The program is generally considered friendly to DOs and IMGs, providing an inclusive environment for aspiring public health leaders 4.

Residents' Benefits

Residents enjoy a supportive work environment with various benefits, including partial funding for graduate coursework in the MPH program through the Employee Education Program. Salaries and benefits align with the University of Kentucky Graduate Medical Education standards. Additional amenities include access to fitness facilities and opportunities for professional development throughout the residency 1.

Career Trajectories

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for advanced training in specialties such as health policy, addiction medicine, and informatics. Many graduates step into leadership roles in government health agencies, healthcare systems, and academic institutions, serving as medical directors, chief medical officers, and experts in public health 1.