University of Tennessee/Saint Francis Program

The University of Tennessee/Saint Francis Program in Family Medicine at Memphis is a comprehensive residency program that is unopposed, fully accredited, and established in 1975. The program is administered by the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and is based at Saint Francis Hospital, a large community hospital located in east Memphis. The program's mission revolves around improving the health and well-being of underserved communities by preparing residents for a broad scope of practice that meets varied primary care needs.

Program Objectives and Unique Aspects

The program emphasizes several core objectives:

• Providing compassionate, high-quality, safe, and cost-effective care to patients.
• Creating a supportive academic and work environment that fosters knowledge dissemination relevant to Family Medicine education.
• Collaborating with various entities to enhance patient care and community service.
• Addressing health disparities and promoting a culture of inclusion within the residency program.

This program has an exceptional record of preparing physicians for the full spectrum of Family Medicine practices. Notably, the residency has maintained a 100% Board pass rate for the past eight consecutive years, underscoring its high educational standards and commitment to excellence in training.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured to ensure that graduates possess the necessary clinical privileges and leadership skills for various environments, including rural and urban settings. Residents gain comprehensive clinical experience through rotations at:

• Saint Francis Hospital for inpatient and obstetrical care.
• Methodist University Hospital for medical intensive care unit (MICU) training.
• Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, focusing on inpatient and emergency care.
• The Veterans Affairs hospital, where residents work alongside private physicians across selected specialties.

This diversity in clinical exposure allows residents to manage a wide array of medical conditions and understand the roles of various consulting specialists, preparing them to make intelligent referrals as needed.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities that align with their interests and career goals. The program promotes a culture of inquiry and continuous improvement, allowing residents to contribute to the advancement of Family Medicine knowledge and practice.

Fellowship Opportunities

The program offers several fellowship options after residency, including:

• Women's Health Care (1-year non-ACGME accredited fellowship).
• Hospice and Palliative Care (1-year ACGME-accredited fellowship).
• Primary Care Sports Medicine (1-year ACGME-accredited fellowship).

This range of fellowship opportunities caters to various interests within Family Medicine and supports residents in pursuing specialized training after completing their residency.

Resident Life

The residency program prioritizes resident wellness and community, ensuring it supports a friendly and inclusive environment. Many residents are actively involved in social gatherings and wellness activities that foster camaraderie among peers and faculty. The program prides itself on a strong sense of support from all team members, which enhances both personal and professional growth.

Application Requirements

Applications to the program must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The required documents include:

• USMLE or COMLEX transcripts.
• Medical diploma.
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) or Dean’s Letter.
• Medical transcripts.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Three letters of recommendation, including one from a Family Physician.
• A personal statement addressing motivations for choosing Family Medicine, leadership roles, personal accomplishments, and future career goals.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must provide certification from the ECFMG and establish at least 12 months of hands-on clinical experience. Additionally, applicants must have graduated from medical school within the previous two years and must be US citizens or permanent residents with valid work authorization, as the program does not sponsor visas.

Salary and Benefits

Residents at the program receive competitive compensation as provided by the Graduate Medical Education (GME) policies. Additionally, fringe benefits include:

• Lab coats provided by GME.
• Access to library resources and educational tools.
• Healthcare, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance options.
• Annual and sick leave as well as educational leave.

Residents also benefit from access to recreational facilities and various support services tailored for housestaff.

Living in Memphis

Memphis offers a vibrant blend of cultural attractions, dining experiences, and recreational opportunities. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living compared to the national average, making it an attractive place to live during residency. Affordable housing options are readily available, and the city is known for its rich history and connection to music, arts, and outdoor activities.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The residency program is known to be highly competitive, actively seeking caring, compassionate, and competent individuals. The program values diversity and inclusion, not discriminating against applicants based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. This commitment promotes a varied and enriched training environment, vital for excellent patient care in diverse communities.