Morehouse School of Medicine/California Hospital Medical Center Program

Overview

The Family Medicine Residency Program at California Hospital Medical Center, sponsored by Dignity Health, is designed to train family physicians who are prepared to serve diverse and underserved populations in urban environments. Established in 1984, the program combines comprehensive clinical education with a strong emphasis on community engagement and healthcare equity. Residents benefit from the hospital’s location in Downtown Los Angeles, with access to a Level 2 Trauma Center and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), enabling them to gain real-world experience delivering care to a medically diverse population.

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Program Highlights

The Family Medicine Residency Program features several key strengths, including:

• Unopposed residency with strong inpatient training
• Integration of special curricula, including Lifestyle Medicine and Point of Care Ultrasound
• Various community partners that provide additional training opportunities

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Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is structured over three years, with increasing responsibility and specialization. Key rotations include:

• PGY-1: Inpatient, Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Emergency Medicine, Surgery, Community Medicine, and more.
• PGY-2: Continued inpatient experiences, electives, and community health engagement, with rotations including ICU, Geriatrics, and Human Behavior.
• PGY-3: Focus on electives and outpatient care, integrating experience across various subspecialties and managing continuity of care.

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Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research, particularly emphasizing projects that explore healthcare disparities and community health initiatives. The program offers resources and mentorship for residents interested in academic careers or those pursuing a focused research interest.

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Unique Aspects of the Program

This program stands out due to its focus on holistic and community-oriented care. Residents can opt for specialized tracks starting in their second year, such as:

• Integrative Medicine Track
• Obstetrics Track

Such tracks allow residents to tailor their education to their interests and the needs of their future practices.

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Community-Based Partnerships

Partnerships with community organizations are integral to the training experience. Residents collaborate with organizations like Eisner Health and Hope Street, delivering care directly to underserved populations and participating in community health initiatives.

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Salary and Benefits

Residents receive competitive salaries, which increase annually:

• PGY-1: $64,272
• PGY-2: $67,485
• PGY-3: $72,100

In addition, residents benefit from educational allowances, housing stipends, generous vacation time, free parking, health insurance, and additional wellness resources.

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Visa Support

It is important to note that the program does not sponsor any type of visa for resident physicians. Thus, applicants must possess proof of legal authorization to work in the US at the time of application.

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Competitiveness

The Family Medicine Residency Program is considered competitive, particularly among applicants who demonstrate a commitment to serving urban and underserved populations. The program welcomes applications from both Allopathic and Osteopathic graduates, as well as international medical graduates.

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Application Requirements

Applicants must submit their materials through ERAS, including:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement
• Photograph
• Three Letters of Reference, preferably including one from a Family Physician
• Medical School Transcripts
• USMLE or COMLEX Transcripts
• Dean’s Letter

International medical graduates must possess ECFMG certification. Note that no maximum number of failed attempts for Step examinations is specified, yet successful candidates typically demonstrate strong scores.

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Living in Los Angeles

Living in Los Angeles offers residents a vibrant environment with diverse cultural experiences, outdoor opportunities, and access to world-class amenities. This enriching lifestyle complements the intensive training received through the residency program, allowing residents to foster both personal and professional development.

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