Specialty:
Internal medicineACGME Code:
1404231398NRMP Program Code:
3012140C0, 3012140P0The Internal Medicine Training Program at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a fully accredited residency program recognized by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program emphasizes comprehensive medical education over a three-year period, designed to prepare residents for the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) certification examination. The program's dedication to quality training is reflected in its longstanding accreditation status, having maintained this since its inception.
The program offers a structured curriculum and exposure to a wide array of clinical experiences. Residents engage in diverse rotations covering various disciplines of internal medicine, participating in both inpatient care within the bustling VA hospital and outpatient care through multiple specialty clinics. The curriculum includes extensive learning in areas such as cardiology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, neurology, and infectious diseases, among others.
Clinical Rotations
Throughout the training, residents rotate through key specialties, ensuring comprehensive exposure and depth in medical education. Each rotation is strategically designed to build competencies and foster independence. For example, the inpatient services allow residents to manage acute medical conditions while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of healthcare providers, enhancing both clinical skills and team-based care practices.
Residents also partake in continuity clinics, where they manage outpatients over extended periods. This continuity of care strengthens the resident’s understanding of chronic disease management and patient relations.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages residents to engage in scholarly activities and research. This involvement allows residents to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and to develop skills that are critical for their future careers. The faculty supports residents who wish to publish their findings or present at national conferences, highlighting the program's commitment to academic excellence.
Unique Aspects of the Program
One of the defining characteristics of the Internal Medicine Training Program is its emphasis on cultural competency, preparing trainees to serve a diverse patient population in a bilingual environment. The VA Caribbean Healthcare System serves a significant number of veterans from various backgrounds, making this training aspect particularly relevant and beneficial.
Training Environment
The VA Caribbean Hospital is a 319-bed facility offering a range of medical, surgical, and psychiatric services. This setting provides residents with firsthand experience in managing complex medical cases. The presence of specialized units including Medical Intensive Care and a dedicated Hematology-Oncology Ward enriches the training opportunities, allowing residents to acquire essential skills in high-acuity settings.
Affiliations and Collaboration
The program maintains affiliations with major medical schools in Puerto Rico, such as the University of Puerto Rico and Ponce Health Sciences University. This collaboration facilitates comprehensive learning experiences, including opportunities for medical students to rotate through the VA hospital during their clinical years. Such relationships enhance the training environment by promoting knowledge exchange and collaboration among diverse healthcare professionals.
Visa Support
The Internal Medicine training program offers visa sponsorship for eligible international medical graduates seeking to train in the United States. Common visa types sponsored include the J-1 exchange visitor visa and the H-1B visa, depending on the individual circumstances of the applicants. This support underscores the program's commitment to attracting a talented and diverse group of residents.
Application Process and Competitiveness
The application process for the Internal Medicine Training Program is highly competitive. Candidates must submit applications via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and are selected through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). The program welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those from osteopathic and international medical schools, fostering an inclusive environment that values varied perspectives in the training process.
Special Application Requirements
Applicants must possess a Doctor of Medicine or equivalent degree from an accredited institution. The program has specific application requirements including guidelines on acceptable outcomes from standardized examinations (e.g., USMLE or COMLEX), and any additional criteria such as a maximum number of failed attempts on these exams may apply.
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Director
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
60 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
24 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$58,216First Year Paid Vacation:
28 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
15 daysTraining
Admission
Match History
Track: 3012140C0
2024
21 of 212023
20 of 212022
20 of 202021
20 of 202020
20 of 20Track: 3012140P0
2024
7 of 72023
6 of 72022
6 of 62021
5 of 62020
5 of 5Location
San Juan, PR
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers a unique living experience with a mix of culture, history, and beautiful beaches. Below are some aspects to consider
- Crime Rate and Safety
Like any urban area, San Juan has its share of crime, but overall it is considered safe, especially in tourist areas. - Fun Activities
Residents can enjoy water sports, salsa dancing, exploring historical sites like Old San Juan, and enjoying the local cuisine. - Climate
San Juan has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and occasional rain showers. Hurricane season is a concern from June to November. - Races and Population
San Juan is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures, making it a vibrant and welcoming community. - Education
Puerto Rico has various educational opportunities, including universities and schools, providing options for families with children. - Cost of Living
The cost of living in San Juan can vary, with housing costs being one of the main expenses. It is advisable to research neighborhoods for affordability. - Proximity to Major Cities
San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and while it's a major city itself, it is relatively close to other cities like Ponce and Mayaguez, approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours by car.
Pros
Rich culture, beautiful beaches, diverse community, tropical weather.
Cons
Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, hurricane risks during the season.
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