Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

The Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital/St. Louis Children’s Hospital Consortium Program in Geriatric Medicine, part of the Internal Medicine Residency Program, is dedicated to cultivating medical professionals who are experts in the field of geriatrics. This program benefits from the rich resources and prestige of Washington University School of Medicine and its affiliated hospitals, providing an excellent educational environment for interns seeking to specialize in geriatric patient care.

Program Overview

The consortium program is an exceptional training platform that integrates comprehensive clinical experience with robust academic growth. Residents are immersed in a collaborative setting with access to diverse clinicians and innovative medical technologies, enabling them to excel in research and patient care. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, holistic care methods, and excellence in communication skills tailored to the aging population 1.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is structured to include a variety of rotations, inpatient services, and didactic sessions that are crucial for developing the expertise required in geriatrics. Interns typically rotate through settings that cover essential services such as internal medicine, cardiology, and critical care. Each intern is also immersed in outpatient experiences through continuity clinics where they manage primary care for geriatric patients 1.

Rotations and Clinical Experience

During residency, interns will work closely with attending physicians in various clinical rotations that encompass the full spectrum of geriatric care. The program includes:

• Inpatient Medicine: Direct care for patients at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the St. Louis VA Medical Center.
• Primary Care Medicine: Residents engage with a diverse patient population in outpatient settings, enhancing their competence in managing chronic conditions prevalent among older adults.
• Geriatrics-Limited Rotations: These rotations focus specifically on the geriatric population, offering specialized knowledge and skills in managing complex medical problems encountered in this demographic.

Research and Educational Opportunities

Washington University's commitment to research and education presents numerous avenues for resident involvement in scholarly activities. Residents are encouraged to initiate their research projects and present their findings at various regional and national conferences, contributing to the field of geriatrics. Financial support for these initiatives is available, further promoting an academic culture enriched by inquiry and discovery 1.

Didactic Sessions

For structured learning, the program organizes regular didactic sessions that follow nationally recognized guidelines. These sessions cover a wide array of topics relevant to geriatrics and are complemented by specialized lectures focusing on wellness, diversity, and quality improvement within elder care settings 1.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program supports J-1 visas for international medical graduates seeking residency opportunities. All applicants are required to have graduated from medical school within the past five years and must demonstrate clinical experience in the United States, which does not include observerships. Candidates must have passed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK to be eligible for application 1.

Competitive Nature of the Program

The consortium program is recognized for its competitive nature, attracting a wide array of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. Residents benefit from a vast network of connections within the medical community, enhancing their chances for future fellowship opportunities and employment within internal medicine 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The facility is proud of its diverse educational resources and community-oriented initiatives that enhance the resident experience. Emphasis is placed on mentorship opportunities that support both personal and professional growth, particularly for underrepresented groups within medicine. Programs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion play a pivotal role in creating a supportive learning environment 1.