Curriculum

Our program is a community-based program but our faculty are both academic and community trained, which leads to a diversity of teaching styles and experiences. Unique training opportunities embedded into our program include a longitudinal weekly medication assisted substance use treatment program, a global health rotation (which can also be a Reservation experience), a longitudinal community medicine elective and many other core experiences. We embrace the philosophy that the “clinic is the curriculum” with access to a robust multidisciplinary team including clinical pharmacists, behavioral health, physical therapy, dentistry and an excellent diabetes program. Community based sub-specialists provide further depth to the educational program.

PGY-1

Intern year is the foundational year, during which residents build the breadth of their knowledge base through immersive experiences. Continuity care is one of our top priorities, so throughout intern year residents return to the clinic at least once a week to see their primary care patients at Mercy Family Health Center and build relationships with their patients.

PGY-2

The second year of residency is the transitional year. Residents will move from the urban site to the rural training site in Grass Valley. Equipped with a solid foundation from intern year, PGY2s build their level of responsibility for patient care and for the education of junior residents and medical students. The amount of time spent outpatient at the continuity clinic (Chapa-De Indian Health) increases significantly, as residents grow more comfortable and confident in their skills as a primary care physician.

PGY-3

The third year of residency is a transformative year, when residents evolve from trainees into independent clinicians ready for graduation from the program. More emphasis is placed on the personal responsibility of the resident in patient care. This includes office-based procedures, practice management, and collaborating with other members of the health-care team.