Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program

OHSU Family Medicine Residency Program Overview

The Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Family Medicine Residency Program is a comprehensive training program located in Portland, Oregon. This program focuses on producing well-rounded family physicians who are equipped to serve diverse communities, emphasizing both academic excellence and practical experience. The program provides residents with the necessary tools to develop both clinical and interpersonal skills vital to primary care.

Curriculum Structure

The OHSU Family Medicine Curriculum is structured to ensure exposure across a broad range of clinical experiences while also facilitating individual resident interests. The curriculum incorporates rigorous didactic sessions and experiential learning:

• Core Rotations: Residents will participate in core rotations that cover essential areas such as internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, and surgery. Each rotation is designed to enhance clinical skill sets pertinent to family medicine.
• Electives: Residents can choose from a variety of elective rotations tailored to their specific interests. These include behavioral health, geriatrics, sports medicine, and global health opportunities.
• Continuity Clinics: Residents will engage in continuity clinics, allowing them to follow patients over time, thereby developing long-term relationships and understanding chronic disease management.

Training Sites

Training occurs at multiple sites within the OHSU Health network and affiliated community practices:

• OHSU Hospital: The main clinical training site providing access to a diverse patient population with comprehensive health care needs.
• OHSU Family Medicine Clinic: A core site for outpatient family medicine training where continuity of care and preventive medicine practices are emphasized.
• Community Partnerships: Residents also gain experience through partnerships with community health centers, which focus on vulnerable populations.

Research Opportunities

Research is woven into the fabric of the residency program. Residents are encouraged to participate in evidence-based projects that can range from community health assessments to clinical research addressing specific family medicine challenges. Faculty mentorship is available to guide residents through the research process.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Several factors distinguish the OHSU Family Medicine Residency Program from others:

• Emphasis on Social Determinants of Health: The program focuses on the impact of social factors on health outcomes, encouraging residents to think about the broader context of patient care.
• Integrative Care: The curriculum includes principles of holistic and integrative health, preparing residents to address a full spectrum of patient needs.
• Diversity and Inclusion: OHSU is committed to enhancing health equity through its recruitment practices and training, preparing residents to serve diverse communities effectively.

Visa and Application Information

The program sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates (IMGs) pursuing residency training in Family Medicine. This program maintains a commitment to include candidates from all backgrounds, making it an IMG-friendly choice.

Competitiveness and Applicant Requirements

The OHSU Family Medicine Residency Program is considered competitive, valuing diverse experiences and perspectives in their applicants. Special application requirements include:

• A preference for candidates who have graduated from medical school within the last five years.
• However, prior experience in primary care or community health is particularly valued.
• The program does not set a specific limit on failed attempts at USMLE Step exams, but strong scores are generally encouraged.

Conclusion

The OHSU Family Medicine Residency Program offers a rigorous training experience characterized by a commitment to primary care excellence, comprehensive curricula, and a focus on the social determinants of health. Candidates seeking to make a profound impact on patient care will find this program to be an ideal place to launch their careers in family medicine.