Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science, College of Medicine Program

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science’s Family Medicine Program stands out with its dedication to serving under-resourced communities and underrepresented individuals. Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, this program offers a unique opportunity for residents to learn and grow as physician leaders committed to justice and equity in healthcare. The program was established following the Watts uprisings in the 1960s and continues to prioritize healthcare disparity reform and human equity in the socio-medical landscape.

The curriculum begins with a month-long orientation that provides residents with insights into community needs, the landscape of local health issues, and how to advocate for systemic changes in healthcare. Emphasizing a mission-based approach, this program prepares residents not just to excel clinically, but to engage in compassionate healthcare delivery.

Training and Rotations

The program accepts eight new residents annually, who train at various partner facilities and gain exposure to a wide range of medical specialties. The primary site for training is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Outpatient Center, which provides multifaceted ambulatory care to the surrounding community. Notable rotations include ICU and Neurology at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, Labor and Delivery at California Hospital Medical Center, Emergency and Cardiology at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and Geriatrics at Long Beach Veteran Affairs Medical Center.

Residents get opportunities to engage with community leaders and are mentored throughout these diverse training experiences. The residency is structured over three years, divided into comprehensive rotations:

PGY1 Curriculum

• Community and Behavior Health
• Adult Inpatient Family Medicine
• Inpatient Maternity Care
• MICU
• Musculoskeletal-Ortho
• Pediatric Inpatient
• Pediatric Outpatient
• Newborn Care
• Vacation

PGY2 Curriculum

• Urgent Care
• Adult Inpatient
• Community Health
• Emergency Medicine
• Surgical Selective
• Family Medicine Inpatient
• Electives in Behavioral Health, Musculoskeletal-Ortho, and Women’s Health
• Vacation

PGY3 Curriculum

• Family Medicine Inpatient Medicine
• Electives in Geriatrics, Outpatient Pediatrics, Behavioral Health, Health Systems Management
• Emergency Medicine
• Musculoskeletal-Ortho
• Dermatology
• Surgical Selective
• Population Health
• Vacation

Research and Educational Opportunities

Charles R. Drew University emphasizes interdisciplinary training, and residents participate in various programs encompassing nursing, physician assistants, public health, and health equity research. The program also provides excellent resources, including a health library and simulation training center, to enhance learning.

Support and Wellbeing

Recognizing the challenges of residency, the program prioritizes residents’ emotional and lifestyle wellness. They provide access to 24-hour confidential and culturally sensitive counseling services, ensuring that trainees receive adequate support during their development.

Application Process

The program invites applications through the ERAS system and requires specific documents, such as a medical school transcript, Dean’s letter, personal statement, curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation. At least one letter should come from a faculty member licensed in Family Medicine who can comment on the applicant’s clinical performance. The program accepts USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 transcripts, or COMLEX Level I and II records, with a designated application deadline of October 30th.

Graduates can come from various backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates, making the program accessible to a broader range of applicants. However, competitiveness remains, as prospective residents should demonstrate strong academic performance alongside a commitment to serving underserved communities.

Visa Sponsorship

The program is supportive of international medical graduates (IMGs) and sponsors J-1 visas, facilitating the entry of qualified candidates from abroad.