Residency Advisor
Big Stone Gap, VA

Specialty:

Internal medicine

ACGME Code:

1405100437

NRMP Program Code:

2216140C0
YOG 5STEP 210 Research Focused DO FriendlyIMG Friendly

Overview of the Program

The Internal Medicine Residency at Norton Community Hospital, part of Ballad Health, is designed to provide a comprehensive and hands-on training experience for residents. This ACGME-accredited program emphasizes direct responsibility in patient care and boasts a supportive learning environment. Residents are afforded ample opportunities to work closely with attending physicians, allowing for personalized mentorship while enhancing their clinical skills in a rural, underserved community.

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Established in 2001, the program has been a key player in improving healthcare access for the region’s population, who often present with chronic health issues. Norton Community Hospital serves as the primary training institution and offers a unique combination of training facilities, including urban tertiary care centers.

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Curriculum and Rotations

The Internal Medicine residency program offers a traditional three-year training pathway. The curriculum includes core rotations that focus on various facets of internal medicine, split across inpatient and outpatient settings. Residents are expected to complete:

  • 16 weeks in inpatient medicine
  • 4 weeks in ICU
  • 4 weeks in cardiology
  • 4 weeks in nephrology
  • 4 weeks in infectious disease
  • 4 weeks in pulmonology
  • 4 weeks in emergency medicine
  • 4 weeks of night float
  • 4 weeks in hematology/oncology
  • 4 weeks of electives
  • Additional outpatient rotations and research opportunities

This diverse rotation schedule is designed to equip residents with the skillset required to manage a variety of cases effectively, including critical and complex conditions commonly seen in rural healthcare settings.

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Clinical Experience and Mentorship

Residents in the Norton program engage in significant clinical experience, spending one half-day each week in an ambulatory medical clinic. This allows them to follow their patients throughout the residency, reinforcing continuity of care. The program also emphasizes daily teaching rounds, grand rounds, and additional learning initiatives, including a journal club and board review sessions. Residents' educational needs are further supported by access to various resources and technology.

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Salary and Benefits

The residency program offers competitive salaries, which increase annually:

  • PGY1: $57,436.99
  • PGY2: $58,952.39
  • PGY3: $61,099.48

Additionally, residents are provided with comprehensive health insurance, dental and vision plans, educational stipends, and paid time off. The program also supports residents with access to fitness facilities and liability insurance.

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Application Process and Requirements

Applicants to the Internal Medicine residency must possess specific qualifications:

  • Graduated from medical school within the last five years (preference for those within the last two years)
  • Have completed COMLEX/USMLE Step 1 and Step 2, passing scores required
  • Submit three letters of reference and a Dean's letter (MSPE)
  • Must apply through ERAS, and J-1 visa sponsorship is offered on a case-by-case basis

For transfer applicants, similar requirements apply, with additional documentation required regarding prior residency training.

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Competitiveness and Visa Sponsorship

The program's admission process is competitive, reflecting the high quality of training it offers. While it welcomes DO and IMG applicants, eligibility requires meeting specific criteria. The program provides J-1 visa sponsorship; however, applicants should ensure they have valid ECFMG certification and strong letters of recommendation to improve their chances of acceptance.

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Unique Aspects and Facilities

Norton Community Hospital prides itself on offering a comprehensive training environment, equipped with specialized facilities. Residents enjoy access to simulation labs, procedure workshops, and a medical library with extensive resources, including subscriptions to key medical journals and educational platforms. The program further supports resident wellness by incorporating wellness activities into its curriculum.

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Moreover, the rural setting provides residents with the unique opportunity to address healthcare disparities in underserved populations, thereby enhancing their professional development and competence as future healthcare providers.

Website

overview

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

9, 9, 9 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2016

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

50 hours

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

12 hours

First Year Salary:

$57,436

First Year Paid Vacation:

20 days

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

30 days

Training

Fellowship Rate:
35%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.1X
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:
210
Visa Sponsorship:
-
YOG Cutoff:
5

Match History

Track: 2216140C0

2024

4 of 9

2023

4 of 4

2022

9 of 9

2021

9 of 9

2020

9 of 9
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Big Stone Gap, VA 24219

Population
5,254
Income
$51,059
Education
18.8%
Employment
33.5%
Health
5.3%
Age
38
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Big Stone Gap, VA

Big Stone Gap, VA is a small town located in the Appalachian Mountains, known for its picturesque scenery and charming atmosphere.

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    The town has a relatively low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
  • Fun Activities
    Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the area. The town also has cultural events and local festivals that offer entertainment.
  • Climate
    Big Stone Gap experiences all four seasons with hot summers and cold winters, providing a variety of weather throughout the year.
  • Races and Population
    The population of Big Stone Gap is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities adding to the town's unique character.
  • Education
    The town has good schools and opportunities for higher education, making it a suitable place for families.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Big Stone Gap is generally lower compared to larger cities, offering affordable housing options.
  • Nearest Bigger City
    Knoxville, TN is the nearest bigger city to Big Stone Gap, located approximately 2 hours away by car. Knoxville is a vibrant city with a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Pros
Scenic environment, low crime rate, affordable cost of living.

Cons
Limited career opportunities, small-town setting.

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