Wellstar Health System/Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center Program

The Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center's Emergency Medicine Residency Program offers comprehensive training tailored to produce competent and compassionate emergency medicine physicians. Founded in 2017, the program has quickly established its reputation, marked by a commitment to high-quality education and an extensive scope of clinical experience. The program is committed to training residents to handle diverse cases, preparing them for any clinical environment. The Kennestone ER is one of the busiest departments in the nation, handling approximately 150,000 patient visits annually, and has access to varied and complex cases that enhance resident learning through practical experiences.

Program Structure

The residency program spans three years, organized into a robust curriculum where the early formative experiences are emphasized. Residents complete clinical rotations in high-volume emergency settings that include diverse patient demographics and needs. For instance, the first year (PGY-1) focuses heavily on clinical responsibilities within the main emergency department, pediatric emergency medicine, anesthesiology, orthopedics, and critical care rotations. Simultaneously, off-service rotations in areas like major intensive care unit (MICU) and emergency medical services (EMS) further augment the core emergency medicine training. The second and third years (PGY-2 and PGY-3) pivot towards advanced complexities in emergency medicine; residents hone leadership skills and take on greater responsibilities in patient care and teaching roles for their junior counterparts.

Curriculum and Rotations

Residents follow a structured curriculum with defined rotation goals to ensure comprehensive exposure to various aspects of emergency medical care. The first year encompasses 6 months in the adult emergency department, 2 in pediatric emergency medicine, and rotations in MICU, orthopedic procedures, and ultrasound training. As residents progress to the second year, they gain more hands-on leadership experience, focusing on critical care, trauma management, and advanced emergency procedures.

• PGY-1: Primary responsibilities in the Emergency Department, rotations in pediatrics, anesthesia, orthopedics, EMS, and MICU; significant night shifts included.
• PGY-2: Enhanced focus on emergency medicine management while increasing participation in critical encounters and trauma situations.
• PGY-3: Leadership roles within the ED, supervising junior residents, and teaching medical students during clinical rotations.

Each resident is engaged in continuity care through a robust outpatient experience, ensuring the transition from acute care to follow-up becomes seamless. 

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on academic pursuits alongside clinical excellence. All residents are required to complete a scholarly project by graduation, with resources provided to facilitate research possibilities across various medical interests. Mentoring is readily available, and funding for conferences to present findings is also extended. Furthermore, a structured curriculum allows residents space for educational development through research initiatives, journal clubs, and case presentations throughout the residency.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A standout feature of the Wellstar Kennestone Emergency Medicine residency program is the integration of a state-of-the-art simulation center. This facility is equipped for procedural simulations that train residents using advanced methodologies and technology. Monthly didactic sessions, led by experienced faculty, ensure that education is not confined to clinical exposure, allowing for a broad understanding of emergency principles and practices.

Residents also benefit from opportunities outside of routine clinical duties, including extracurricular workshops focusing on quality improvement, healthcare disparities, and advanced procedural excellence in the emergency medicine landscape.

Living in Atlanta

Residents live in proximity to Marietta, GA, an area known for its cultural vibrancy, recreational activities, and community-oriented lifestyle. Whether engaging in various outdoor activities, participating in Atlanta’s rich cultural scene, or simply enjoying the historic downtown square's ambiance, residents of Wellstar's Emergency Medicine Program experience a fulfilling balance between professional challenges and personal fulfillment.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The residency program is competitive and welcoming to both D.O.s and international medical graduates (IMGs), and the Wellstar Health System provides visa support for specific categories, including J-1 visas.

Special Application Requirements

Applicants need to have graduated from an LCME-accredited school or an international equivalent and must provide scores for USMLE Steps 1 and 2 or their COMLEX equivalent. While the program accepts applications from IMGs, it specifically requires a valid ECFMG certificate. The program does not currently impose a limit on how many times candidates can attempt board examinations.

The Wellstar Kennestone Emergency Medicine Residency Program promises to equip future physicians with essential emergency medical skills while fostering a supportive and enriching training environment.