Virtua Program

The Virtua Internal Medicine Residency is designed to provide comprehensive training for internists focusing on promoting health, preventing disease, and managing a diverse range of illnesses. This program is hosted at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital (VOLOL) in Camden, NJ, and offers extensive educational opportunities across multiple Virtua inpatient and outpatient facilities over a rigorous three-year curriculum.

As a new program, it benefits from the support of a well-established healthcare system, Virtua, and the progressive academic programs of Rowan University. This partnership enriches the residency experience with academic resources that emphasize skills development and simulation training.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency program comprises a balanced curriculum that includes rotations in various specialties designed to build comprehensive expertise in internal medicine. Key components include:

• PGY-1: Medical ICU (6 weeks), Cardiac ICU (3 weeks), Inpatient General Medicine (17 weeks), Night Float (6 weeks), Ambulatory Care (10 weeks), Neuro (2 weeks), and various electives.
• PGY-2: Continuation of ICU rotations, inpatient experiences, ambulatory care, and an increased focus on electives.
• PGY-3: Advanced training with additional responsibilities, continuous care, and final specialty rotations.

This structure embeds rich experiences in both inpatient and ambulatory settings, promoting exposure to diverse patient populations and conditions.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities throughout their training. This not only enhances their understanding of evidence-based practices but also fosters critical thinking and skills in scientific inquiry, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the field of internal medicine.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Virtua’s residency program stands out due to its:

• **Prestigious Affiliations**: Collaborations with esteemed institutions like Rowan University and Penn Medicine enhance the educational environment.
• **Holistic Training Approach**: The program aims to develop compassionate practitioners who appreciate the complexity of patient care, integrating psycho-social components into medical practice.
• **Cultural Competency**: A commitment to cultural awareness promotes understanding of diverse perspectives and the unique needs of patients.

Such factors ensure that graduates leave well-equipped to excel in various career paths within internal medicine and its subspecialties.

Application and Admission Requirements

Applications to the Virtua Internal Medicine Residency must be submitted through the ERAS platform. Important eligibility criteria include:

• Graduation from an LCME- or COCA-accredited medical school for U.S. medical graduates.
• International medical graduates must have an ECFMG certificate and have graduated within the last five years.
• USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 and 2 must be passed on the first attempt.
• For competitive placement, USMLE scores greater than 235 and COMLEX scores over 500 are favored.
• Three letters of recommendation including a departmental chair letter are required.

This structured approach attracts high-quality candidates who are fundamentally aligned with the program's mission.

Visa Support

The program is equipped to sponsor J1 visas for international medical graduates, thereby facilitating the participation of exceptional candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Competitiveness of the Program

The Virtua Internal Medicine Residency is considered to be competitive, attracting a broad range of applicants, including US medical graduates and international medical graduates. The program seeks residents who demonstrate strong academic and clinical performance along with a commitment to the values of patient-centered care.

Training Sites

Residents will engage in rotations at multiple Virtua facilities, including:

• Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital
• Virtua Voorhees Hospital
• Virtua Mount Holly Hospital
• Virtua Marlton Hospital
• Virtua Willingboro Hospital

These sites provide an array of clinical experiences, enabling residents to manage a diverse patient population and various medical conditions.

Benefits and Support

The residency program offers a robust benefits package, including health insurance, educational stipends, paid time off, and allowances for various professional development activities. This commitment to resident wellness ensures a supportive environment conducive to both personal and professional growth.