University of Maryland Program

The University of Maryland's Internal Medicine/Pediatrics (Med-Peds) residency program is designed to cultivate outstanding physicians through comprehensive education and diverse clinical experiences. With over 25 years of training excellence, the program emphasizes mentorship, research, and collaboration among residents and faculty alike.

Curriculum Overview

The residency's curriculum spans four years, offering a balanced structure wherein residents dedicate 24 months to both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. This approach provides exposure to a range of clinical settings including ambulatory, inpatient, and intensive care. Residents alternate between three and six-month blocks in the two disciplines, which allows for learning seasonal illnesses crucial for effective pediatric care. Throughout the training, residents maintain continuity in patient care by attending a continuity clinic in both fields on alternating weeks. This hands-on experience is complemented with a second half-day clinic focusing on community Med-Peds or specialty practices. This structure enables residents to gain diverse experiences in urban, suburban, and rural environments, enhancing their adaptability and understanding of different patient populations 1.

Education and Training

The program places a strong emphasis on continuous learning, evidenced by its weekly Med-Peds conferences that include lectures, journal clubs, and board reviews. These meetings offer residents opportunities to delve deeper into clinical and educational issues alongside faculty. The mentorship provided by program directors and faculty is pivotal in fostering residents' career goals, equipping them with the skills required to excel in various medical disciplines 3.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in robust research opportunities throughout their training. The program's academic environment supports residents in exploring their interests in both primary care and subspecialty medicine, preparing them for certification examinations in both pediatrics and internal medicine upon completion of their residency 2.

Application Process

Applications to the Med-Peds residency are only accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program offers four positions each year, and prospective applicants are required to submit various documents, including a personal statement, letters of recommendation (preferably from faculty in both medicine and pediatrics), and their USMLE scores. Notably, international medical graduates must present their USMLE Step 1 scores, as COMLEX scores alone are not sufficient for interview consideration 2.

Competitiveness and Candidate Requirements

The Med-Peds program is characterized as highly competitive. Candidates should ideally possess strong academic credentials, clinical experiences, and recommendations from faculty who can attest to their capabilities. There are no strict limits on the number of failed STEP exams; however, candidates should note that successful completion of USMLE Step 1 is essential for osteopathic students 2.

Visa Support

The University of Maryland residency program provides visa support, and it sponsors J-1 visas for eligible international medical graduates. This support enables qualified residents to participate fully in the training program while fulfilling immigration requirements 3.

Living in Baltimore

Residents at the University of Maryland benefit from the vibrant culture of Baltimore, which offers a range of amenities, recreational activities, and a strong sense of community. The program encourages applicants to consider both professional and personal aspects of their lives while navigating their residency experience.

The dedication of the Med-Peds program to creating a supportive and nurturing environment fosters lifelong friendships in addition to medical expertise, ensuring that residents are well-prepared for their future careers 1.