University of Tennessee College of Medicine at Murfreesboro Program

The University of Tennessee College of Medicine at Murfreesboro offers an Emergency Medicine Residency Program that is both comprehensive and immersive, delivered in a community-based setting. This program is designed to equip residents with the skills needed to excel in emergency medicine through a curriculum that emphasizes both clinical and non-clinical education. Residents undergo training at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, a high-volume emergency department, where they gain substantial hands-on experience managing a diverse array of patient presentations and critical situations.

Program Structure

The residency is a three-year program that accepts eight residents annually. The curriculum is structured around extensive clinical rotations across various essential disciplines including emergency medicine, critical care, OB/GYN, and anesthesiology, allowing residents to gain a well-rounded experience.

First Year (PGY-1)

Residents begin with a dedicated orientation month followed by rotations in:

• Emergency Medicine: 8 months
• Critical Care: 1 month
• OB/GYN: 1 month
• Anesthesiology: 1 month
• Emergency Ultrasound: 1 month
• EMS and Research: 1 month
• With 3 weeks of vacation per year.

Second Year (PGY-2)

During the second year, the focus shifts towards enhancing both knowledge and management skills:

• Emergency Medicine: 8 months
• Critical Care: 1 month
• Pediatric Intensive Care: 1 month
• Trauma: 1 month
• 1 month of electives
• Plus, 3 weeks of vacation.

Third Year (PGY-3)

The final year emphasizes leadership roles and supervising junior residents:

• Emergency Medicine: 10 months
• Critical Care: 1 month
• 1 month of electives
• Plus, 3 weeks of vacation.

Curriculum and Conferences

The residency program fosters a strong educational environment through various strategies including weekly conferences, hands-on skills workshops, simulation exercises, and journal clubs. The curriculum incorporates both core emergency medicine content and subjects such as personal finance and career development, contributing to well-rounded training.

Research Opportunities

Residents are expected to engage in scholarly activity throughout their residency, completing at least one research project. The program emphasizes the importance of research methodology, encouraging residents to contribute to medical literature and participate in quality improvement initiatives. This support is bolstered by faculty mentorship and collaboration with various academic resources available through the University of Tennessee.

Resident Life and Wellness

The program places significant importance on resident wellness, providing a supportive environment aimed at fostering a healthy work-life balance. A wellness committee is active in organizing activities, mentorship, and counseling services, which are vital aspects of the residency experience. Residents are encouraged to participate in various wellness events and peer support groups, which promote camaraderie and help manage the stresses associated with residency training.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program primarily sponsors J1 visas for international medical graduates (IMGs). It requires applicants to have completed at least one year of clinical experience in the U.S. or similar healthcare systems, and for candidates with previous residency experience, letters from previous program directors are required. Foreign applicants must also possess their ECFMG certification and submit two letters of recommendation from U.S.-based physicians. The program's competitiveness is characterized as being DO and IMG-friendly.

Salary and Benefits

Residents receive a competitive salary, which includes an educational stipend for essential expenses. Health insurance is provided, requiring a small copayment from residents, and additional benefits include life and disability insurance and resources for professional development.

Training Sites

The primary training site for residents is Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, a modern facility featuring comprehensive services for critical care. To diversify training, residents will also gain experience in pediatric care at Erlanger Children's Hospital and adult trauma care at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, establishing a robust foundation in emergency medicine practice.

Living in Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro, nestled in Middle Tennessee, is a vibrant city with a rich array of amenities—including parks, shopping districts, and numerous dining options—while maintaining a lower cost of living compared to national averages. The proximity to Nashville expands entertainment options, offering cultural, musical, and recreational opportunities for residents to enjoy during their off-time. The community's commitment to family-friendly living conditions and education make it an attractive place for prospective residents to settle and grow.