University of Wisconsin (Baraboo) Rural Program

The Baraboo 1-2 Rural Training Track (RTT) Family Medicine Residency Program is uniquely designed to train residents in a rural setting, creating an environment that authentically reflects private practice in a rural community. Residents enjoy a comprehensive training experience characterized by flexibility and hands-on patient care.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The program utilizes a hybrid longitudinal curriculum within an apprenticeship model. This format allows residents to immerse themselves in full-spectrum family medicine through experiences such as hospital rounds, clinic visits, urgent care/ER calls, hospital admissions, and obstetrics. Throughout this training, residents maintain significant continuity of care with patients, reflecting the dynamics of rural practice 1.

During the first year of training, residents primarily focus on inpatient responsibilities, often rotating with Madison Family Medicine partners at St. Mary’s Hospital and University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics. They will also begin to establish their continuity patient panel at Dean Clinic Baraboo, their respective family medicine clinic 4. The second and third years involve engaging more deeply with rural family medicine—residents are expected to reside within 20 minutes of Baraboo and practice across various community settings 6.

Clinical Training Locations

The primary clinical training sites include St. Clare Hospital and Health Services, Dean Clinic Baraboo, and University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. St. Clare serves as a regional community hospital with 200 beds and provides diverse medical services, including a six-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and extensive obstetric services. The hospital has an annual average of 325 deliveries, which facilitates substantial maternity care training for residents 2. Furthermore, residents benefit from an extensive outpatient training experience in various community settings.

Research Opportunities and Electives

Baraboo residents are encouraged to engage in research and educational opportunities, including elective rotations that can encompass a wide array of specialties such as cardiology, geriatrics, and global health. The residents typically have a minimum of 12 weeks allocated for electives where they can tailor their learning to individual clinical interests 5.

Community Life

Baraboo, a small city nestled in spectacular scenery, provides a community-oriented lifestyle with access to many outdoor and cultural activities. The region is home to several parks, including the renowned Devil’s Lake State Park, which offers various recreational activities throughout the year. The city features vibrant downtown shopping venues, various dining options, and numerous social events, enhancing the overall living experience for residents 3.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The Baraboo program is known for its supportive selection process, welcoming applications from DO and IMG candidates. The program emphasizes a holistic review of each application, focusing on candidates who express a commitment to rural healthcare practice. Applicants are encouraged to participate in interviews which comprise both in-person and optional virtual sessions 7. It is necessary to review the eligibility criteria as additional requirements can vary, such as year of graduation and any maximum failed exam limits.

Visa Support

The Baraboo program provides support for visa applications and is able to sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas for qualifying international medical graduates, facilitating their ability to train in a rewarding rural residency setting.