University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Joe and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine Program

The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio offers a comprehensive Internal Medicine residency program designed to train future leaders in the field. The program is a pivotal part of one of the largest health centers in South Texas and emphasizes both clinical excellence and advanced research.

Curriculum Overview

The Internal Medicine residency curriculum is structured to provide residents with a solid foundation in clinical practice while also incorporating significant opportunities for research and professional development. The program features a balance of inpatient and outpatient rotations, ensuring residents gain comprehensive exposure to various medical conditions.

This curriculum is designed to meet the diverse needs of the patient population in San Antonio, tackling a wide range of health issues, particularly those prevalent in the South Texas region. Specialty rotations encompass critical areas such as cardiology, infectious diseases, nephrology, and gastroenterology, among others, allowing residents to gain in-depth expertise.

Rotations

The Internal Medicine residency program includes diverse clinical rotations performed at affiliated institutions. Residents engage in training at the University Hospital, recognized for its advanced medical care, as well as the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, which provides unique insights into veteran care. These rotations are integral in developing a well-rounded clinical acumen applicable to both community-based and academic settings.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the Long School of Medicine's mission, with residents encouraged to participate in ongoing studies and to contribute original research. The program supports involvement in diverse research fields, including behavioral health, cancer, diabetes, and neuroscience. Residents have access to state-of-the-art facilities and are trained by faculty members who are leaders in their fields, enhancing the research experience.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the standout features of the Internal Medicine residency program is its commitment to community engagement and patient-centered care. Residents are actively involved in developing programs that directly impact health disparities within the surrounding populations. This focus on community service aligns with the school’s mission to address the health-related needs of Texas citizens.

Training Sites

The residency program utilizes multiple training sites to ensure exposure to a wide variety of clinical conditions and healthcare settings. These include the University Health System and the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, both of which have a reputation for high-quality patient care and robust training environments.

Visa Support and Types Offered

The Internal Medicine residency program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. The program typically sponsors J-1 visas, which are designed for medical residents and fellows participating in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs, as well as H-1B visas for those holding a distinct clinical position.

Competitiveness of the Program

The program is recognized for its high standards and is considered competitive within the landscape of residency training. It is welcoming to a diverse pool of candidates, including those from DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) backgrounds as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). While the program values robust academic performance, it also considers a holistic view of each applicant's experiences and qualifications.

Application Requirements

Applicants to the residency program are expected to have a strong academic track record, and specific attention is given to performance on standardized exams such as the USMLE Step exams. While there are no rigid retention policies regarding failed attempts, the program tends to favor candidates with fewer than two attempts on any Step examination. Additionally, graduating from medical school within the last two years is typically preferred to ensure up-to-date knowledge and skills.