Southeastern Regional Medical Center Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at UNC Health Southeastern, sponsored by the Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, is dedicated to providing a comprehensive training experience for its residents. The program holds accreditation from the ACGME and accommodates a total of 39 residents, distributing 13 slots per year to ensure an optimal training environment.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to encompass a broad spectrum of essential medical training. In the first year (PGY 1), residents undergo rotations across various specialties, including:

• Inpatient Medicine (4 Blocks)
• Critical Care (1 Block)
• Night Float (1 Block)
• Cardiology (1 Block)
• Inpatient/Outpatient Psychiatry (1 Block)
• Emergency Medicine (1 Block)
• General Surgery (1 Block)
• Women’s Health (1 Block)
• Ambulatory Clinic (1 Block)
• Admissions (1 Block)

In the second year (PGY 2), the training continues with:

• Inpatient Medicine (4 Blocks)
• Critical Care (1 Block)
• Night Float (1 Block)
• Pulmonology (1 Block)
• Infectious Disease (1 Block)
• Gastroenterology (1 Block)
• Rheumatology (1 Block)
• Ambulatory Clinic (1 Block)
• Electives (2 Blocks)

The third year (PGY 3) provides deeper immersion into outpatient medicine along with advanced electives:

• Inpatient Medicine (3 Blocks)
• Outpatient Medicine (1 Block)
• Critical Care (1 Block)
• Night Float (1 Block)
• Endocrinology (1 Block)
• Nephrology (1 Block)
• Hematology/Oncology (1 Block)
• Neurology (1 Block)
• Electives (3 Blocks)

This diverse curriculum ensures residents acquire a solid foundation in internal medicine, enhancing their readiness for independent practice and board examinations 4.

Clinical Experience

Residents benefit from extensive clinical exposure at UNC Health Southeastern, a healthcare facility with 325 beds and approximately 60,000 Emergency Department visits annually. The primary clinical rotations are conducted within the hospital setting, allowing residents to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and learn from a variety of medical professionals 1.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes the importance of research in shaping competent physicians. Faculty members support residents in pursuing individual research interests, providing mentorship and resources necessary to engage in meaningful projects. This focus on research aims to enhance critical thinking and contribute to advancements in internal medicine 1.

Benefits and Salary

Residents receive competitive compensation and a supportive benefits package. The salary structure is as follows:

• PGY 1: $57,138.00
• PGY 2: $59,093.00
• PGY 3: $61,152.00

In addition to salary, the program provides funds for Continuing Medical Education (CME), totaling $1,800 for PGY 1, $1,200 for PGY 2, and $1,500 for PGY 3. Residents also enjoy 21 days of paid vacation each year, health and dental insurance, life insurance, and an in-hospital meal stipend, thus ensuring a well-rounded residency experience 3.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The program is considerate of international medical graduates (IMGs) and sponsors J-1 visas for applicants. This makes it an IMG-friendly program, as those applying can maintain a focus on their medical training without significant administrative barriers.

Though competitive, the program encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with DO degrees. It assesses applications with flexibility; however, it typically requires applicants to have graduated from medical school within a few years and limits the maximum number of unsuccessful STEP exams 1.

Unique Aspects

One of the distinctive qualities of the program is its commitment to work-life balance among its residents. The protected didactic time, comprising four hours per week dedicated to lectures, journal club meetings, and board reviews, fosters a conducive learning environment while allowing residents adequate time for personal well-being 1; 4.

Resident Life

The program encourages a close-knit community among residents. Activities and peer support systems are facilitated to enhance teamwork and foster a family-like atmosphere within the residency. Regular opportunities to interact informally with peers and faculty contribute to a positive educational environment.