University of Tennessee Program

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Internal Medicine Residency Program offers a comprehensive training designed to develop internists excelling in compassionate care. The UTHSC program in Memphis operates on a 3+1 block system alongside an evolving ambulatory curriculum, leveraging technologies such as the SIM Center, interactive applications, and ultrasound to enrich the learning experience. Residents experience high patient acuity across three hospitals, gaining exposure to a wide range of internal medicine pathology and the significant impact of social determinants of health.

Application Requirements

• A complete application includes a current photograph, personal statement, medical school transcript, MSPE, USMLE or COMLEX scores (Step 1 score required initially; Step 2 CK score before rank list submission deadline), and at least three letters of recommendation (including one from the medicine chair).
• There are specific considerations and criteria for IMG applicants, including a USMLE Step 1 passing score on the first attempt if taken after January 1, 2022, and at least a 230 on the first attempt of USMLE Step 2 CK. Additionally, graduation from medical school must be within the last three years, or the applicant must have worked as a physician in a clinical setting for at least two years out of the last five.
• The program does not routinely sponsor J-1 Visas and cannot sponsor H visas.

Program Highlights

• The Internal Medicine Program at UTHSC is involved in significant research activities, ranking in the top 20% nationally for NIH funding per faculty member. Residents are required to complete a scholarly activity prior to graduation.
• The curriculum is designed to prepare residents for excellence in any future medical endeavor, with a block schedule that allows for focused training blocks followed by ambulatory weeks.
• UTHSC offers several training tracks including the Guided Resident International Training (GRIT) for residents interested in global health.
• Didactic education includes a blend of traditional lectures and innovative educational methods to complement the extensive clinical training.

Additional Information

• Twenty categorical spots are available for the 2024 match season.
• The program values diversity and is dedicated to selecting residents who demonstrate patient-centeredness, kindness, empathy, diligence, and good communication skills.
• Resident salaries and benefits are competitive, and residents have access to a range of resources including the UT Health Science Center Library and various wellness programs.

Why Choose Memphis?

• Memphis is presented as an exciting and culturally rich city, offering a blend of historical sites, entertainment, outdoor activities, and shopping. The city's healthcare infrastructure provides an excellent training environment for residents.

Although the program emphasizes a holistic review of applications without strict cut-offs for USMLE scores, it does specify requirements for IMGs which include score thresholds and limitations on the time since medical school graduation. This selective approach indicates a competitive atmosphere, albeit with a welcoming perspective towards diverse applicant backgrounds. The lack of mention of sponsorship for H visas could be a determining factor for some IMGs.

Ultimately, the UTHSC Internal Medicine Residency Program offers a rigorous and innovative training environment, supported by a strong research background and comprehensive clinical exposure within the dynamic and diverse community of Memphis. Applicants looking for a blend of traditional and modern educational approaches in internal medicine might find UTHSC an attractive option.