Specialty Advisor
Specialty Advisor(s)
TBD
Program Director
Dr. Andrea Maritato
andrea.maritato@mssm.edu
https://www.mountsinai.org/profiles/andrea-f-maritato
Advice from Specialty Advisor
What should students be doing in year 1 and 2?
In years 1 and 2, the students should be doing activities that show their interests and help explore the field. For Family Medicine, that's about working with the underserved but if they like women's health or LGBTQ work or HIV care, they should get involved in that.
What should students be doing in year 3 and 4?
In years 3 and 4, they should do well on all clinical rotations, especially Ambulatory Care-Geriatrics. Family Medicine also look at grades in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Psychiatry because they are relevant to the field. Electives should further reflect their specific interests in Family Medicine or specific populations. Reach out to the Specialty Advisor in late Spring to discuss the residency application process.
Is an away elective recommended?
Away electives are not required. They are recommended only if there is a place a student really wants to go that is competitive as the away elective may help garner an interview. Away electives can give a student more insight into a program than an interview day does.
Other general info
Family Medicine isn't so much about scores as about interests. It's a big field. Students want to show they have a lot of interests and pursue them. Personal statements should speak to their strengths and why they are drawn to the field.
LoRs
Departmental letter necessary?
A departmental letter is not required but our department will happily write one to add to the student's application.
Any specific writers needed?
Students should have one letter from a Family Med doctor if possible.
All from the specific specialty or from other specialties as well?
Students should try to get one letter from a Family Med doctor if possible. The rest can be from other specialties. Pediatrics and Internal Medicine are probably the best other choices but any other specialty is fine as long as the writer knows the student well.
Recommended websites
CiM Family Medicine Profile
American Academy of Family Physicians Medical School & Residency
Future of Family Medicine
Dr. Neil Calman's Blog
Recommended journals
Annals of Family Medicine (Original Research in Family Medicine)
American Family Physician (Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Conditions)
Archives of Family Medicine (Original Research in Family Medicine)
Family Medicine (Original Research and Education in Family Medicine)
Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine (Original Research and Practice of Family Medicine)
Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved (The Interface between Family Medicine and Community Health)
Health Affairs (Policy Oriented)