University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program
Location:
Albuquerque, NMSpecialty:
Public health and general preventive medicineACGME Code:
3803413133The University of New Mexico (UNM) Preventive Medicine Residency Program at the School of Medicine provides advanced training focused on health promotion and disease prevention. This program prepares physicians to lead health improvement initiatives addressing individual and community health. Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in healthcare, public health agencies, and community organizations.
The residency program trains residents in both clinical medicine and population health, bridging the gap between these fields to tackle various issues impacting populations. Core competencies developed through the program include:
- Health promotion and wellness
- Environmental and occupational health
- Prevention in clinical medicine
- Healthcare organization management
- Epidemiology as applied to prevention
- Biostatistics and data synthesis
- Health advocacy and policy
- Research on injury and disease prevention
The program is highly regarded for offering unique opportunities not commonly found elsewhere. Key features of the residency include:
- In-depth training alongside the New Mexico Department of Health staff on public health practice activities.
- Direct experience working with diverse populations, including Hispanic and American Indian groups.
- Community-based prevention activities and involvement with the CDC-funded Prevention Research Center.
- Development of skills for working with adolescents within Albuquerque Public Schools through School-based Health Clinics.
- Clinical skill-building focused on addiction through the UNM Addiction and Substance Abuse Program.
- Engagement in telehealth projects in collaboration with Project ECHO, aimed at enhancing community healthcare delivery.
- Personalized mentored research experiences aligned with residents' individual interests.
- Participation in local and national professional meetings to contribute to broader conversations in the field.
The curriculum is designed to be comprehensive and adaptable, allowing for individualized education plans that reflect residents' interests. The training spans two years and includes coursework for a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, for which tuition is fully covered by the program. The program's structure is as follows:
Curriculum Overview
Year one focuses on core courses covering Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Patient Outcomes Research, Scientific Writing, Ethics, and Cultural Competency. During year two, residents undertake independent study courses and complete a research thesis.
Residency Program Rounds
This includes journal clubs and didactic series covering various topics such as Environmental Health, Clinical Preventive Services, and Health Services Management.
Longitudinal Clinical Preventive Medicine
Residents engage in clinical rotations at various sites, completing at least half a day in a clinic each week, including clinics focused on occupational and addiction medicine.
Cornerstone Projects
Residents can initiate projects within preventive medicine, accommodating unique educational opportunities, including outbreak investigations, establishing refugee clinics, and improving access for underserved populations.
Practicum Rotations
Rotations at the New Mexico Department of Health familiarize residents with public health activities on various governmental levels. Residents also gain practical experience in addiction medicine settings, earning certification in prescribing buprenorphine, and being involved in harm reduction and telehealth initiatives.
Residency Requirements
The program offers visa sponsorship for J-1 visas, making it accessible for international medical graduates (IMGs) and those with a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. It is essential for applicants to meet NM medical license requirements, and all qualified candidates who submit completed applications on time will be eligible for consideration.
Competitiveness and Selection
The residency program is competitive, emphasizing a strong record in public health and preventive medicine. Candidates who graduated within the last three years and have not failed any component of the USMLE more than once are preferred. The selection committee evaluates applications on a rolling basis, ensuring broad accessibility while maintaining high standards.
Website
Director
Denece Kesler, MD, MPHDirector, Preventive Medicine Residency Program Appointed Since July 2008Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
8hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,273First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
50%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Albuquerque, NM
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque, NM is a city rich in culture and history. Here is a breakdown of what it's like living in Albuquerque:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Albuquerque has some areas with higher crime rates, so it's essential to research specific neighborhoods for safety.
- Fun Activities: Albuquerque offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and hot air ballooning. The city also has a vibrant arts scene and hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year.
- Climate: Albuquerque experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations throughout the day.
- Races and Population: Albuquerque has a diverse population with a mix of Hispanic, Native American, White, and other ethnicities.
- Education: Albuquerque is home to the University of New Mexico, providing educational opportunities and contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Albuquerque is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Albuquerque is about a 4-hour drive from Phoenix, AZ, and a 6-hour drive from Denver, CO. These cities offer additional cultural and entertainment options.
Pros: Rich culture, diverse population, lower cost of living.
Cons: Some areas with higher crime rates, temperature fluctuations.
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