University of Washington Program

Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM) at the University of Washington is a distinguished joint program between the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, the Department of Medicine, and the Division of General Internal Medicine. The program emphasizes using evidence-based clinical approaches, cutting-edge research, and interdisciplinary training to meet the regional and emerging needs in occupational and environmental medicine.

The OEM Clinic at Harborview Medical Center, established in 1981, has been serving the state of Washington's occupational medicine needs and focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries and diseases related to environmental and occupational exposures. The clinic functions in collaboration with patients, employers, and community groups to ensure a comprehensive understanding of occupational health risks.

Program Overview

Established in 1977, the OEM residency/fellowship program is one of the longest-standing programs in the United States. It is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and receives grant funding through the CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Trainees gain clinical practice expertise through rotations at various academic and community-based occupational medicine clinics.

The program incorporates a two-year degree through the School of Public Health, where most residents are concurrently enrolled, providing a robust curriculum that addresses the critical relationship between work and health.

Curriculum and Training Structure

The residency training is designed to build competency in recognizing, diagnosing, and treating occupational and environmental diseases. Trainees also become proficient in assessing individual fitness for work from both a physical and emotional standpoint. The curriculum includes core courses in epidemiology, toxicology, and public health, with a focus on research, clinical practice, and community engagement.

Key clinical rotation sites include the Harborview Medical Center, the OEM Specialty Clinic, and various community health facilities. Public health rotations are integrated with organizations like the Washington Poison Center and the Department of Labor & Industries, providing comprehensive training across diverse environments.

Each resident undertakes a significant research project which contributes to advancements in occupational health practices. Recent projects have included studies on chronic health risks for specific occupations and investigations into occupational exposures and their health implications.

Research Opportunities

The research component of the program plays a crucial role in informing public policies and best practices in occupational health. Current research areas include climate-related hazards, air pollution, work-related injuries, and environmental health risks. The program actively encourages residents to participate in interdisciplinary research initiatives, leveraging faculty expertise across various domains of occupational medicine.

Visa Support and Application Competitiveness

The OEM program provides visa support for foreign medical graduates. Candidates applying from outside the United States should have passed the USMLE exams and hold a valid ECFMG certificate, along with the requirement of having completed at least one year in an ACGME-approved residency before applying.

The program is competitive, welcoming applications from both MD and DO graduates, as well as foreign medical graduates. Experience in clinical settings, military service, or relevant public health practice will strengthen the application.

Special Application Requirements

To be eligible for the OEM residency program, practitioners must have completed a minimum of one year of postgraduate training in an ACGME-approved residency program. They must demonstrate a commitment to the field through related experiences. Furthermore, applicants who are not U.S. citizens must ensure eligibility for a Washington licensing certificate to secure placement in the program.

Benefits and Support

Residents receive a competitive stipend that reflects the national level, alongside benefits including tuition for the MPH program, medical liability coverage, and professional development resources. The program also advocates for its residents to attend national and regional professional meetings as part of their development.

Unique Features of the Program

The University of Washington's OEM program stands out due to its integration of occupational health services and public health training, supported by a long-standing history within the industry. The program is linked with the Northwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety and offers unique initiatives such as the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health.

Seattle provides an enriching environment for both personal and professional growth, including access to outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a vibrant atmosphere that fosters innovation in health sciences. The program's alumni work in various sectors including academia, public health agencies, and private sectors, reflecting the versatility and comprehensive training offered by the OEM residency program.