Program Director Statement

The combined Medicine-Pediatrics Program at the University of Minnesota is an innovative, four-year training program leading to board eligibility in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. The program is the combination of two outstanding programs, the Internal Medicine and Pediatrics programs at the University of Minnesota. Our residents receive their ambulatory as well as inpatient training at Fairview-University Medical Center, Minneapolis Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Regions Hospital, Children's Hospitals and Clinics, and Gillette Children's Specialty Health Care. The great diversity of patient populations and complexity of care offered at these sites is a particular strength of the program. Opportunities abound for community-based experiences in urban as well as rural locations and International Health experiences are strongly supported.

We take pride in an innovative approach to graduate medical education. Our residents participate in the Primary Care Symposia, as well as hands-on educational workshops four times every year. This begins during intern orientation week, with specific training in areas traditionally most feared during that first month; such as how to deliver bad news, effectively interact with angry patients and family members and counsel patients on behavioral change - all with the help of professional Standardized Patients. At each of the sites through which our residents rotate, teaching rounds, daily didactic conferences, morning reports and grand rounds are conducted. In addition to the many electives offered by the Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, we have developed combined electives in Endocrinology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Cardiology. Our residents also often pursue International Clinical Experience for two months during their training period with the full support of the program.

Our program, which began in 1989, has grown tremendously over the past 14 years. The large size of the training program provides a diversity and camaraderie among our residents. Graduates from our program have pursued primary care and combined hospitalist or subspecialty careers, mirroring national trends. The tradition of academic excellence at Minnesota ensures high quality preparation and flexibility in career choice. This program is the focal point of an ever-growing and thriving Med/Peds community with excellent job opportunities available on graduation. Faculty members here serve as excellent role models for careers in research, practice or both. Nationally recognized scholars on the faculty in both departments have produced a long history of medical discoveries.

Several innovations in the program support residents and their families in their interests and needs beyond medicine. Transition workshops throughout the four years focus on supervisory, teaching and human relations skills. Practice management seminars and career planning are integral to the program. Partner workshops, monthly social activities and family events provide balance and fun.

Minnesota's four distinct seasons provide residents and their families with numerous opportunities to enjoy our treasured outdoors and much-acclaimed quality of life. Countless residents have come to Minnesota ostensibly for the program but have remained here after falling in love with Minneapolis/St. Paul and the Upper Midwest. 

In summary, the University of Minnesota Med-Peds Program offers world class training in a diverse and vibrant community. As one of the largest programs in the nation, we are able to offer residents optimum flexibility and choice in customizing their experience to meet their career goals. Our track record of success is measured by the accomplishments of our nearly one hundred graduates, and over 40 current residents. We invite you to join them!

Bradley J. Benson, M.D., F.A.C.P.
Director, Med-Peds
Residency Program