Residency Advisor

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) Family Medicine Residency Program is situated within the Department of Family Medicine at UTMB Health in Galveston, Texas. Established in 1971, the program has a longstanding commitment to excellence in medical education, patient-centered care, and advancing scholarship in primary care.

Program Structure

The residency program is structured as a 12-12-12 curriculum, accommodating a total of 36 residents. The program has maintained a 100% board pass rate since 2011, reflecting its rigorous training and scholarly environment. Notable longitudinal tracks include Sports Medicine, Medical Spanish, and Hospital Medicine, as well as immersion programs focused on Faculty Development, OB/Women's Health, and Integrative Medicine.

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Curriculum Highlights

The educational framework incorporates a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare residents for the evolving landscape of family medicine. Key components of the curriculum consist of:

  • Essentials Orientation: A four-week orientation for first-year interns to acclimate to residency.
  • Behavioral Medicine Rotation: A dedicated rotation in the second year that emphasizes the integration of behavioral health strategies into clinical practice.
  • Board Preparation: A focused board review rotation in the third year, supplemented by complimentary access to UWorld materials.
  • Practice Management: An intensive longitudinal curriculum aimed at equipping residents with essential business skills.
  • Integrative Medicine: Patients are considered holistically, with attention to all facets of their care.
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Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

Residents benefit from diverse clinical rotations across multiple sites, including:

  • The Jennie Sealy Hospital in Galveston, providing a robust inpatient experience.
  • Family medicine clinical sites located on the UTMB Galveston campus and in Dickinson, Texas.
  • The Gulf Health Care Center and the Galveston County Health District's Coastal Health & Wellness service, which broaden training experiences and enhance community engagement.
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Research Opportunities

The UTMB Department of Family Medicine is dedicated to research that prioritizes community health and advances patient care. Faculty, residents, and students can engage in interdisciplinary research projects. Scholars are encouraged to publish their findings, attend regional research symposiums, and participate in the broader academic community.

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Community Medicine and Advocacy

A core aspect of the program prioritizes community medicine, allowing residents to engage in health advocacy and intervention initiatives in partnership with local organizations. This is critical for understanding socioeconomic determinants of health and improving population health outcomes.

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Application Process and Competitiveness

The UTMB Family Medicine Residency Program is recognized for its competitiveness in the match process. It is considered friendly to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DO and international medical graduates. Specific application requirements may include graduation year norms and considerations on prior STEP exam attempts.

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Visa Support

The residency program supports visa applications for international medical graduates, providing sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This facilitates the inclusion of qualified non-U.S. citizens in the residency program, contributing to a diverse learning environment.

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Living in Galveston

Situated on Galveston Island, the UTMB residency program allows for a balanced lifestyle that promotes both professional growth and personal well-being. The area is known for its year-round activities, mild climate, and vibrant community, providing residents with a conducive environment to thrive academically and personally.

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Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinguishing features of the UTMB Family Medicine Residency Program is its commitment to a patient-centered medical home model. This model emphasizes integrated, coordinated, and accessible healthcare for all patients, ensuring high-quality care that aligns with modern healthcare delivery trends.

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Professional Development

Residents actively participate in scholarly activities throughout the three-year duration of the program. This includes opportunities to publish research and presentations at regional symposia. The strong emphasis on mentorship, particularly for research, provides a foundation for future career advancement.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

12, 12, 12 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since May 1972

Composition

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

65hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

14hrs

First Year Salary:

$63,243

First Year Paid Vacation:

12 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

12 days

Training

Fellowship Rate:

20%

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

0.5X

Residents career path:

Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

205

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

3

Match History

1714120C0

2024

10 of 12

2023

10 of 10

2022

12 of 12

2021

12 of 12

2020

10 of 12

Location

Galveston, TX

Population
350,682
Income
$83,514
Education
35%
Employment
60.8%
Health
13.7%
Age
38

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Galveston, TX

  • Crime Rate and Safety: Galveston has a moderate crime rate. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, petty theft and property crime can occur.
  • Fun Activities: Living in Galveston offers access to beautiful beaches, water activities, historic sites, museums, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is famous for its Victorian architecture and annual Mardi Gras celebration.
  • Climate: Galveston experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The area is prone to hurricanes due to its location on the Gulf Coast.
  • Races and Population: Galveston has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural atmosphere.
  • Education: Galveston offers educational opportunities through schools like the University of Texas Medical Branch, providing a strong academic environment for residents and families.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Galveston is lower than in larger Texas cities like Houston. Housing is affordable, but the cost of insurance may be higher due to the city's proximity to the coast.
  • Proximity to Larger Cities: Galveston is located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, which can be reached by car in about an hour's drive. Houston offers a wider range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural experiences.
  • Pros: Beautiful beaches, rich history, diverse cultural scene, lower cost of living compared to some other Texas cities.
  • Cons: Proximity to hurricane-prone areas, moderate crime rate, potential higher insurance costs.

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