Wellstar Health System/Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center Program

The Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program offers a comprehensive training experience for aspiring family physicians in a supportive and collaborative environment. The program places a significant emphasis on developing well-rounded, compassionate practitioners equipped to face the challenges of family medicine. As a resident, you will become part of a nurturing family, where high-quality patient care is prioritized and relationships are fostered amongst peers, faculty, and staff.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The residency program spans three years, with categorized rotations designed to provide a broad exposure to various aspects of family medicine. The training is divided into three Post Graduate Year (PGY) levels consisting of:

PGY-1

• Family Medicine Boot Camp (1 month)
• Inpatient Rotations (3 months)
• Family Medicine Clinic (1 month)
• Surgery (1 month)
• Obstetrics (1 month)
• Intensive Care Unit (ICU) (1 month)
• Outpatient Pediatrics (1 month)
• Emergency Pediatrics (1 month)
• Emergency Medicine (1 month)
• Orthopedic/Sports Medicine (1 month)

PGY-2

• Inpatient Medicine (2 months)
• Gynecology (1 month)
• Dermatology (1 month)
• Family Medicine Clinic (2 months)
• Electives (2 months)
• Pediatric Inpatient (1 month)
• Coronary Care Unit (1 month)
• Geriatrics (1 month)
• Obstetrics (1 month)

PGY-3

• Inpatient Medicine (2 months)
• Family Medicine Clinic (3 months)
• Electives (4 months)
• ENT/Urology (1 month)
• Outpatient Pediatrics (1 month)
• Radiology/Pathology (1 month)

Longitudinal rotations in Behavioral Medicine and Community-Oriented Primary Care (COPC) also form an essential part of the curriculum.

Clinical Rotations and Patient Care

Residents participate in an array of clinical settings, gaining exposure to diverse patient populations. Those enrolled in the program have opportunities to serve patients across various demographics, including pregnant patients, pediatric patients, and geriatric patients. This eclectic training prepares residents for numerous career pathways, be it in clinical practice or further specialization.

Research Opportunities

The Wellstar Kennestone Family Medicine Residency encourages residents to engage in scholarly activities, with a focus on clinical-based and community-based medicine. Some notable research projects involve understanding obesity and its social determinants within Cobb County, among other population health challenges. This exposure helps residents grasp the critical role of social factors impacting health outcomes, further cultivating their understanding of a comprehensive care model.

Unique Aspects of the Program

What sets the Wellstar Kennestone program apart is its commitment to health equity, collaborative spirit, and holistic education. The program supports diverse patient care experiences and engages in initiatives that ensure equitable healthcare access for all. Additionally, there are designated well-being activities, ensuring that resident wellness is a priority throughout training.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is known to foster a friendly yet competitive environment, welcoming applicants from diverse medical backgrounds, including both MDs and DOs. While the program values a strong academic foundation, it also strongly emphasizes interpersonal skills, resilience, and commitment to serving the community.

Applicants typically are required to submit various documents via ERAS, including a curriculum vitae, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The program does not impose a graduation cutoff but emphasizes holistic evaluation, making it a friendly option for both U.S.-trained graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs).

Visa Sponsorship

The Wellstar Kennestone Family Medicine Residency Program sponsors J-1 visas for IMG applicants. However, it is essential to be aware that the program does not provide support for other visa types, such as H-1B. Applicants requiring visa sponsorship should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria.

Living and Working in Marietta

Situated in Marietta, Georgia, the residency program is positioned within a vibrant and welcoming community, offering residents an easy commute to Atlanta and access to numerous recreational, dining, and cultural opportunities. Wellstar Kennestone's significant infrastructure and facilities provide a solid foundation for a rewarding residency experience.