University of Kentucky College of Medicine Program

Welcome to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine’sGeneral Preventive Medicine – Public Health Residency Program. Thisfully accredited ACGME residency addresses the growing need forpreventive medicine and public health specialists in managingchronic and infectious diseases. The program is designed to equipresident physicians with essential skills to develop, lead, andimplement health policies and population-based health promotionstrategies tailored to the diverse communities in Kentucky andbeyond. The overarching goal of the program is to produceknowledgeable, effective, and well-rounded professionals dedicatedto improving health outcomes.

Program Structure

The residency spans two years, known as PGY2 and PGY3, andcombines academic coursework with practicum rotations. Residentswill earn a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the UKCollege of Public Health, which is a nationally recognizedinstitution known for its strong focus on public health education.This dual approach not only enhances the residents’ clinical skillsbut also provides a robust theoretical framework necessary foreffective public health practice 1.

Part of the residency experience includes completing a minimumof 80 half-days of clinical care, with opportunities to participatein additional elective clinical experiences. Required practicumsites include esteemed institutions such as the Kentucky Departmentfor Public Health, Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, andLexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center, among others1.

Academic Components

The academic component encompasses a diverse range of coursesaimed at providing comprehensive knowledge in public healthpractices. Key subjects include health services administration,environmental health sciences, biostatistics, epidemiology, andsocial and behavioral sciences. Weekly didactic sessions arestructured to immerse residents in real-world applications ofpreventive medicine principles, promoting critical thinking anddecision-making skills. Journal clubs facilitate in-depth analysisof the current research landscape in preventive medicine and publichealth 1.

The capstone research project is a significant requirement thatallows residents to explore specific areas of interest deeply andcontribute to the existing body of knowledge. Residents areencouraged to present their findings at annual professionalconferences, enhancing their professional development andnetworking opportunities 1.

Unique Practicum Experiences

Each resident collaborates with the program director to design aunique practicum experience, which may include rotations atinstitutions such as the Kentucky Injury Prevention and ResearchCenter, Kentucky Health Information Exchange, or the UK Center forHealth Services Research. These rotations focus on specializedareas such as integrative medicine and health policy, providingtailored experiences that align with the residents’ careeraspirations and public health needs 1.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the residency program is highlycompetitive. Candidates must submit all applications through theElectronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including a CV,personal statement, letters of recommendation, and officialtranscripts. Preference is given to applicants who have graduatedfrom medical school within the last five years, possess primarycare clinical experience in the U.S. within the past year, and havepassed USMLE or COMLEX Step I and II with no more than two failuresallowed 4.

For international medical graduates, current ECFMG certificationis necessary, and the program exclusively sponsors J-1 visas4. Interviews will be conducted virtually, allowingcandidates flexibility during the selection process, and aretypically scheduled between October and February.

Competitiveness

The UK General Preventive Medicine – Public Health ResidencyProgram is highly competitive, attracting a diverse pool ofapplicants, including domestic and international medical graduates.The program is generally considered friendly to DOs and IMGs,providing an inclusive environment for aspiring public healthleaders 4.

Residents’ Benefits

Residents enjoy a supportive work environment with variousbenefits, including partial funding for graduate coursework in theMPH program through the Employee Education Program. Salaries andbenefits align with the University of Kentucky Graduate MedicalEducation standards. Additional amenities include access to fitnessfacilities and opportunities for professional developmentthroughout the residency 1.

Career Trajectories

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for advanced trainingin specialties such as health policy, addiction medicine, andinformatics. Many graduates step into leadership roles ingovernment health agencies, healthcare systems, and academicinstitutions, serving as medical directors, chief medical officers,and experts in public health 1.