University of Tennessee Program

The Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is dedicated to cultivating independent and compassionate physicians who can deliver quality care across diverse medical settings. With a legacy dating back to 1982, the program has successfully trained over 300 internists and pediatricians, fostering an excellent educational environment for more than 48 residents at any given time.

Program Curriculum

The Med-Peds residency program comprises a comprehensive curriculum that integrates training in both internal medicine and pediatrics. The structure includes a 12-month intern year followed by progressive supervisory roles. Residents are scheduled for rotations every three months, ensuring exposure to a broad range of medical experiences. This dynamic structure is complemented by the 3+1 model in internal medicine, where residents engage in three weeks of continuous inpatient care followed by one week focused solely on outpatient clinic experiences, primarily in the UTMP outpatient clinic, which features a Med-Peds faculty team. This unique setup is designed to solidify residents' clinical competence and reinforce their experience in various clinical settings.

Clinical Training Sites

Residents benefit from a diverse range of clinical environments through five major teaching hospitals associated with the program, including:

• Baptist Memorial Hospital - Memphis: This flagship hospital is a tertiary care center offering numerous subspecialty and ambulatory elective opportunities.
• Memphis VA Medical Center: Serving veterans since 1922, this facility provides comprehensive care and serves as one of the primary adult teaching hospitals.
• Regional One Health: As the oldest health system in Tennessee and a Level 1 trauma center, it is pivotal for residents gaining experience in trauma and community care.
• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: Renowned for its groundbreaking research and care for children with serious illnesses, this facility is a hallmark of excellence in pediatric medicine.
• Le Bonheur Children's Hospital: Recognized as one of the best children's hospitals in the nation, Le Bonheur specializes in high-quality pediatric care and hosts a Level 1 pediatric trauma center.

Community Engagement

The program emphasizes community involvement through partnerships with local organizations such as Soulsville Charter School and Church Health, offering residents opportunities to engage with urban underserved populations and mentoring initiatives.

Research Opportunities

Med-Peds residents are encouraged to pursue research interests across a variety of clinical areas, with institutional support for participation in scholarly activities. Residents have presented at numerous prestigious conferences and published research findings that have contributed to advancements in internal medicine and pediatrics.

Application Process

The application process is highly selective, particularly with regard to International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program requires applicants to have:

• A minimum of three months of hands-on clinical experience in the United States.
• Graduation from medical school within the last five years.
• USMLE or COMLEX scores included in their application.

Only J-1 visas are sponsored by the program, and those requiring H-1B visas are encouraged not to apply.5

Competitive Nature

The Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program at UTHSC is notably competitive, attracting applicants from various medical schools. It maintains a welcoming stance towards osteopathic graduates and IMGs, reflecting a diverse applicant pool and fostering an inclusive training atmosphere.6

Benefits and Support

Residents receive a competitive salary, comprehensive health and insurance coverage, and access to educational resources including stipends for books and professional memberships. The program is committed to residents' well-being, offering wellness initiatives, mentorship opportunities, and a supportive community.7

Why Memphis?

Memphis itself serves as an enriching backdrop to the residency experience, characterized by its vibrant culture, historical significance, and community spirit. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living compared to the national average and benefit from engaging with a large and diverse population, which enhances their clinical training and community involvement.