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Residents in the UPMC Rural Family Medicine Residency share experiences that are enhanced by the following characteristics:
We strive to develop highly competent and compassionate family physicians in an atmosphere of respect, friendship, and professionalism.
The UPMC Rural Family Medicine Residency Program in north central Pennsylvania serves as a vital link between the health care needs of the local community and the training of future family medicine physicians. The residency is designed to provide comprehensive medical education and training to doctors who wish to specialize in family medicine with a focus on rural health care.
North central Pennsylvania, known for its rural setting, presents distinct healthcare needs such as limited access to specialized care, higher rates of chronic diseases, and health disparities stemming from socioeconomic factors.
The residency program establishes close ties with the local community. It actively engages with community leaders, organizations, and stakeholders to better understand the health care needs and develop initiatives to address them. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the training provided aligns with the requirements and realities of the community.
Residents often have the opportunity to participate in community outreach programs, health fairs, and clinics that provide care to underserved populations. By actively engaging with the community, residents gain exposure to the unique health care challenges and develop cultural competence, adaptability, and a patient-centered approach to care.
The program also emphasizes the importance of continuity of care. Residents are encouraged to establish long-term relationships with their patients, serving as primary care providers who understand the specific needs and context of the community. This approach fosters trust and strengthens the bond between the residency program and the community, as patients benefit from consistent, personalized care.
Residents will have opportunities to collaborate with local health care organizations, including critical access hospitals, rural health clinics, and community health centers. These partnerships facilitate rotations and clinical experiences in various settings, exposing residents to a broad spectrum of healthcare scenarios and ensuring they are well-prepared to practice in rural environments.
Through a combination of clinical training, community engagement, and collaboration with healthcare organizations, these programs aim to produce competent family medicine physicians who are committed to serving rural populations and improving the overall health outcomes in the region.
Residents will be linked with a community family during their PGY-2 and PGY-3 academic years to learn about the rural community and ensure they have support and guidance while they are in training.
During PGY-2 and PGY-3 the critical access hospitals in north central Pennsylvania have provided access to housing in the Wellsboro and Coudersport regions. This housing is conveniently located near the hospitals and was renovated with the residents in mind. In rural communities housing can be difficult to find for residents when they are moving in the middle of the residency like you have in an integrated rural residency. This important and generous benefit was made possible by the Laurel Foundation and the hospitals to best welcome the residents into their communities.
The residents and faculty also participate together in the following events:
To learn more about our rural family medicine residency program in north central Pennsylvania, call 800-837-2011.
