Providence St. Vincent Medical Center: Our Residents
The residents at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center (PSVMC) are a diverse and enthusiastic group. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds and each brings a unique perspective to residency. During this formative experience, the residents themselves are an integral part of the supportive and nurturing learning environment at PSVMC. The small size of the program, the presence of talented peers, and the humane call schedule all combine to allow important relationships to develop and flourish.
Greetings from Providence St. Vincent Medical Center!
I chose this program because I wanted a residency that would not only stimulate my scientific curiosity, but would teach me to provide comprehensive, evidence-based, patient-centered medical care. As the chief medical resident, I can honestly say that I received this and more!
At Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, you will experience the joy of truly being your patient’s physician, developing longitudinal relationships and watching them benefit from your partnership. One such patient of mine, after suffering with complicated grief following her spouse’s death, regained her love of hobbies and enjoyment of her family after frequent counseling visits and medical therapy. Another patient with incurable cancer appreciated our honest discussion of prognosis and eagerly accepted my recommendation for hospice. She later welcomed me to her home for a “house call” during the final weeks of her life, one of my most meaningful patient encounters. You will work alongside exceptional subspecialists who not only consult on your patients but participate directly in your residency as teachers and mentors. Our curriculum in Critical Appraisal of the Medical Literature will refine your ability to glean important updates in medical practice from the flood of published articles. You will engage faculty members in debate over diagnostic tests and treatments of critical importance to your patients. You will learn from, and teach, your peers and colleagues, and will have the opportunity to apply those skills in such venues as teaching local physician assistant students and moderating their journal club. You will find a great sense of camaraderie here. The close friendships I’ve developed with my fellow residents and our faculty attendings have enriched my personal growth and taught me the importance of community in my practice.
Our city of Portland and the surrounding areas have the perfect blend of urban culture and natural beauty. Forest Park, the largest urban park in the United States, with its 5100 acres and 70-plus miles of trails, is a 10 minute drive from the hospital. Portland is known for its culinary vision, with 2008 James Beard nominees in Best Rising Chef and Best Chef- Northwest. The Oregon Coast, one hour away, provides rest and relaxation with its tidepools, kite-flying weather, and ethereal sunsets.
If you desire superior medical training in a supportive environment, all within a vibrant and dynamic city, you have found your home. I invite you to come and see first-hand the gem that is St. Vincent!
__________________________ Sarah Rahkola, M.D. Chief Resident Providence St. Vincent Internal Medicine Residency Program E-mail the chief
