SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine (Southwest Illinois) Program

Saint Louis University’s Family Medicine Residency Program in O’Fallon, Illinois, offers a comprehensive training experience, dedicated to the development of residents in family medicine. Established in 1997, this program is unique as it integrates both civilian and military training, providing residents with the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of community-based clinical environments.

Program Structure

The residency accommodates 14 residents per class, ensuring that all participants receive individualized attention and support during their training. The program is committed to providing a residency experience that emphasizes full-spectrum medical care, innovative learning opportunities, and a focus on quality education.

Curriculum Overview

Residents experience a well-structured curriculum that includes rotations at various healthcare facilities such as HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Scott Air Force Base, SIHF Healthcare, and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Throughout their training, residents engage in outpatient clinical work as well as numerous procedures and specialties.

In the first year (PGY-1), residents participate in a foundational rotation that includes inpatient medicine, obstetrics, and outpatient procedures, allowing them to build essential skills early in their education. The second-year rotation emphasizes critical care, family medicine inpatient service, obstetrics night float, and research involvement. Finally, third-year residents (PGY-3) focus on community rotations, electives, and an increased volume of outpatient clinical responsibilities.

Clinical Rotations

Throughout their training, residents participate in various clinical rotations:

• Inpatient Obstetrics
• Pediatrics
• Sports Medicine
• Emergency Medicine
• Gynecology

This structured approach ensures residents gain diverse experiences in managing both preventative care and complex health issues across populations.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research throughout their training, with designated blocks of time set aside for scholarly work. This component allows residents to contribute to the field of family medicine and expand their understanding through practical applications of research methodologies.

Training Sites

The core training site—HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital—provides residents with invaluable experience due to its unopposed residency structure. The program also utilizes community clinics that serve underprivileged populations, fostering a commitment to health equity. Additional training occurs at Scott Air Force Base and facilities within the SIHF Healthcare network.

Resident Life

O’Fallon, Illinois, and the neighboring St. Louis area provide a supportive and family-friendly environment for residents. The region features numerous recreational activities, educational institutions, and community services, creating a well-rounded living experience outside of residency work.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program emphasizes diversity within its educational framework, actively recruiting individuals from varied backgrounds to create a culturally rich environment. Engagement in community service projects and diversity workshops further enhances the residency experience by addressing social determinants of health.

Visa Support and Requirements

The residency program sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates. However, H-1 or H-4 visas are not supported. Applications are accepted from candidates who have passed Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE or COMLEX examinations, with a maximum of two attempts allowed per step. Applicants should also have at least six months of recent contact with U.S. healthcare practices.

Post-Residency Opportunities

On completion of the program, graduates have successfully secured positions in diverse healthcare settings, including fellowships and various family medicine practices. Many alumni choose to continue serving in the military or transition into civilian roles across the U.S. and abroad.