Family Medicine Residency Program - Iowa Lutheran Hospital

• Emergency Medicine (4 weeks)
• Family Medicine Ambulatory (8 weeks)
• Family Medicine Inpatient (8 weeks)
• ICU (4 weeks)
• Night Float (4 weeks)
• Obstetrics (8 weeks)
• Pediatrics Inpatient - Blank (4 weeks)
• Pediatrics ER - Blank (4 weeks)
• Surgery (4 weeks)

• Behavioral Medicine (2 weeks)
• Cardiology (4 weeks)
• Community Medicine (4 weeks)
• Electives (8 weeks)
• Electives - Away (4 weeks)
• Gastroenterology (2 weeks)
• Gynecology (4 weeks)
• NICU (2 weeks)
• Orthopedics (2 weeks)
• Pediatrics Ambulatory (4 weeks)
• Pediatrics Selective (4 weeks)
• Psychiatry (2 weeks)
• Pulmonary Medicine (2 weeks)
• Sports Medicine (2 weeks)
• Ultrasound (2 weeks)

• Behavioral Health (2 weeks)
• Community-Based Practice (4 weeks)
• Dermatology (2 weeks)
• Electives (8 weeks)
• Electives – Away (4 weeks)
• Family Medicine Inpatient (8 weeks)
• Nephrology (2 weeks)
• Neurology (2 weeks)
• Obstetrics (8 weeks)
• Ophthalmology (2 weeks)
• Orthopedics (2 weeks)
• Otolaryngology (2 weeks)
• Urology (2 weeks)

• Allergy
• Casting
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Endocrinology
• Gynecology
• High Risk OB
• Hospice
• Infectious Disease
• Office Cardiology
• Oncology
• Pain Management
• Palliative Care
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Perinatology
• Pharmacy
• Podiatry
• Rheumatology
• Wound Care

These are just a few options available.

Daily morning conference starts with case presentations for new admissions and obstetrical deliveries.  Monday through Thursday we have teaching conferences that include topics from the following areas:

• Cardiology
• Pediatrics
• Geriatrics
• Ob/Gyn lectures and conferences
• Practice management/coding specialist presentations
• Psychiatry
• University of Iowa Visiting Professor Lectures
• Electronic medical records
• Pharmacology
• Medical subspecialties
• Ancillary services
• Resident-led Journal Club
• Resident Balint sessions to help us examine the emotional content of the doctor/patient relationship
• Jeopardy™-like board review

Once a year, in December, we schedule breakout sessions, bringing all the residents together to learn procedures, use the chart review process to examine standards of practice, learn from community agencies and participate in interactive seminars, commonly tied together by a common theme or area of medicine.

Recent topics have included community medicine, chronic pain, domestic violence and human sexuality.

• Adverse Weather
• Appeals Procedure for the Resident (Addendum B)
• Business Issues
• Chief Resident Selection
• Clinic Staffing Chart Review
• Clinical Competency Committee
• Documentation of Experiences by Residents
• Home Visits
• Hospital Procedures Policy 
• Independent Study
• In-Training Exam Performance
• Library Resources
• Licensure
• Messages
• Morning Report Attendance
• Nursing Home Visits
• Passing Part 3 Boards
• Procedures for Admissions, Discharges, Coverage and Medical Records
• Professional Appearance
• Professional Conduct and Contact 
• Program Evaluation Committee
• Progress Committee
• Residency Program Personnel
• Resident Contract
• Selection of Residents Applicant Criteria
• Statement of Stipends and Benefits (Addendum A)
• Supervision of Residents
• Timely Completion of Documentation
• Transition of Care
• UnityPoint Health and UnityPoint Clinic Mission Statements
• UnityPoint Health Central Iowa Family Medicine Residency Program Mission Statement 
• Vacation & Time Off Protocol
• Video Recording
• Work Hours

Applicants with one of the following qualifications are eligible for appointment to accredited residency programs:

• Graduate of medical schools in the U.S. and Canada accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)
• Graduate of medical schools in the U.S. and Canada accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
• Graduate of medical schools outside the U.S. and Canada who meet one of the following qualifications:
  • Have received a currently valid certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates
  • Have a full unrestricted license to practice medicine in a U.S. licensing jurisdiction
• Graduates of medical schools outside the U.S. who have completed a Fifth Pathway program provided by an LCME accredited medical school

To be eligible for a resident license, an applicant shall meet all the following requirements as found in Chapter 10 of the Administrative Rules of the Iowa Board of Medical Examiners:

• Fulfill the application requirements
• Be at least 20 years of age
• Hold a medical degree from an educational institution approved by The Board at the time the applicant graduated and was awarded the degree
  • Educational institutions approved by The Board shall be fully accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the board as schools of instruction in medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery and empowered to grant academic degrees in medicine
  • The accrediting bodies currently recognized by the board are:
    • LCME for the educational institutions granting degrees in medicine and surgery; and
    • AOA for educational institutions granting degrees in osteopathic medicine and surgery
  • If the applicant holds a medical degree from an educational institution not approved by the board at the time the applicant graduated and was awarded the degree, the applicant must hold a valid certificate issued by ECFMG or have successfully completed a fifth pathway program established in accordance with AMA criteria

Must meet all of the following:

• Preference given to those with recent training:
  • Currently attending medical school training and eligible for graduation by the start of the residency year or be a recent medical school graduate
     — or —
  • Been in training in an accredited internship or residency program within the past year.
• Must have received passing scores on USMLE or NBOME Step 1 and be eligible for the Step 2 exams.
• Must be fluent in written and verbal English language.

“Our faculty create a sense of family within our program. They are not only colleagues but also true friends. Each year, they warmly welcome a new group of interns, embracing them as part of this close-knit family. They set high standards for themselves and each other, and this commitment to excellence naturally extends to us as residents. They exemplify mutual respect and professionalism, both in their interactions with one another and in their guidance of us. They are always willing to stay late in clinic when you’re an intern running 40 minutes behind schedule, or to take a phone call on your drive home after a difficult shift. I've never questioned their commitment to supporting us as residents. Going above and beyond is simply their way, every time, every shift, every day. Amidst the stress and intensity of residency, they stay charming, humble, and enjoyable to be around.” – Taryn Hye

“I was drawn to Iowa Lutheran because of the comradery amongst the faculty and residents. Even as a medical student, I felt right at home with team. The faculty are incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, and invested in our growth as medical professionals. They also prioritize our well-being and I never feel afraid to ask for help. Their mentorship has been invaluable to my education!” – Victoria Whitcomb

"As a rotating medical student, I found myself captivated by the relationships I observed between residents and faculty members at Iowa Lutheran Hospital. On my first day, I watched as numerous residents and faculty members trickled into the resident lounge over the lunch hour to find any remaining seat (or part of a seat) to eat lunch together (and yes, it was hospital cafeteria food). This simple routine spoke volumes about the program culture at Iowa Lutheran Hospital, one of both mutual respect and comradery among faculty and residents alike. As a resident, I have been fortunate enough to count myself among those lucky enough to learn from such an outstanding group of intelligent, supportive, approachable and fun faculty physicians." — April Forsyth

"One of the reasons I was excited about this program was how the faculty and residents get along. Some of our faculty are graduates from the program, so they have literally been in our shoes. They often stop by the lounge to chat, eat lunch or just check in on us. They remember being an intern calling a specialist for the first time, running their first code, etc. That means they have lots of tips and tricks for us!  We have a similar comradery in the clinic. They really make us feel like equals; for example, we all sit at the same workspace while seeing patients. They are always available for a question or to give their advice on a complicated patient, and on rare occassion, they may even need our help!" — Eric Neill

“I think that one of the most unique aspects of our program is the work environment that is present every single day. It was very clear from the first day of intern year that not only do the residents work together in all aspects of patient care, but they often spend time together to discuss topics not at all related to work/medicine. Lunch is very often a time where faculty and residents can catch-up (often with lots of laughs involved). You will also find residents that often hang out with each other outside of work (ranging from class get togethers for Taco Tuesdays to celebrating birthdays/other milestones). I learned on day one of my intern year that you are never alone at Lutheran and have found that to be true every day since then. The work environment at our program encourages you to work hard but also gives you a community who is there to help you accomplish that work.” – Samantha Storts

"Being a new intern, I was incredibly nervous about making medical decisions on my own and learning how to function efficiently in my new role. So far, I have had incredible support from my fellow residents, attending faculty, nursing staff and electronic record support staff. I always feel comfortable asking my senior or attendings for help. Everyone is willing to teach and answer questions, no matter how trivial they may seem. Nurses have been helpful in orienting us to different policies on the floors, and EMR staff have been available during clinic hours to help with outpatient charting. I am so glad I chose to come to Lutheran because the welcoming, collaborative environment has made the transition from student to resident much easier!" — Julia Farruggia

"The work environment was one of the main reasons I wanted to complete my training at Iowa Lutheran Hospital. Our program has such an amazing group of people – both co-residents and faculty. I have never once been afraid to ask senior residents or faculty for help. We genuinely enjoy spending time together – as evidenced by the nearly constant lunchtime cribbage games that happen, as well as frequent gatherings outside of work which both residents and faculty attend, such as our intramural softball and volleyball teams. I find that spending time together at work (while not working) and outside of work made it much easier to approach seniors and faculty to ask questions and while staffing patients. The friendly and supportive environment makes it very easy to look forward to coming to work each day and lets us focus on learning and taking excellent care of patients instead of being nervous about interacting with each other or our faculty." — Eric Jones

"As an intern, it can feel both exciting and nerve racking to go from being a student to making medical decisions and learning how to function efficiently in my new role. So far, I have had incredible support from my fellow residents, attending faculty, nursing staff and other health care workers. I always feel comfortable asking my senior or attendings for help. Everyone is willing to teach and answer questions, no matter how trivial they may seem. No matter what role an individual may play in the healthcare system, there is always something to learn from them. I am so glad I chose to come to Iowa Lutheran Hospital because the welcoming, collaborative environment has made the transition from student to resident much easier!" — Jeals Brines

“The strength of our residency program truly lies in the incredible group of people who make it exceptional. The camaraderie, support, and collective expertise of our residents and faculty create an environment where everyone thrives and grows. From day one of intern year, you quickly realize that the Lutheran program is not only a unique place for professional development, but also a supportive community where lasting connections are forged!” – Ethan Fabrizius

"The biggest strength of our program is the amazing group of people we work with. We have a very supportive group of residents and faculty who get along great at work and outside of work. We have many formal and informal outings where residents, faculty and family members can get together. Coming to work is a lot of fun when you are surrounded by an amazing group of doctors who are not only your colleagues but become good friends!" — Sasha Kloos

"I had the privilege of completing a sub-internship at Lutheran during my fourth year of medical school, and it was an experience that left a lasting impression. From day one, I was struck by the camaraderie among the residents, clinical staff, and faculty. The sense of teamwork and mutual support was palpable, creating an environment where everyone was committed to excellence. What stood out most to me was the culture of collaboration and the genuine care for each other, which translated into exceptional patient care. One of the main reasons I chose Lutheran for my residency was the undeniable excitement I felt each day as I left the hospital, knowing that I would return to continue learning and growing. Lutheran is unique not only because of its diverse patient population but also because of the unparalleled opportunities it provides for hands-on learning. I am confident that the training I receive here will equip me to become the best physician I can be, thanks to the extraordinary educational environment Lutheran offers." – Dante Mautino

"I chose Iowa Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines because while I was rotating here as a medical student, it was clear to me how much the residents and faculty enjoyed it here and enjoyed working together. The culture was something I knew I would fit in well with and enjoy being a part of for three years. Additionally, I knew after I completed my residency, I would be prepared for my future career in rural Iowa." — Demi Eble

"Two things stuck out the most to me when I chose Iowa Lutheran Hospital for my residency, the culture and the education. Being from Iowa, I knew I wanted to stay in Des Moines but when it came to choosing between the programs, I ultimately chose Iowa Lutheran Hospital. I think our culture exemplifies comradery between the residents, faculty and clinic staff. I found outside of work we truly care about one another and would describe each other as friends in addition to colleagues. Residency is such a hard time; you might as well be doing it with your best friends. The other aspect is an obvious one. The education at Iowa Lutheran Hospital is outstanding. As an affiliate program of the University of Iowa, we have access to all the resources and education of a university/academic institution while being in a community-based program. We spend the majority of time at Iowa Lutheran Hospital for our inpatient service. We are unopposed, get interesting patients, have access to procedures and are the code team (opportunities we may not get at another hospital). I think Iowa Lutheran Hospital was the best fit for me and hope it is for you too!" — Hannah Hartman

“I chose this program for many reasons, but one that stuck out to me was how involved the residents and faculty are in activities outside of the workplace. Residency at Lutheran is not a time to put your life on hold for three years, but a time to live your life to the fullest while learning how to do the coolest job in the world. Residents here learn to be great physicians while also becoming parents, traveling the world, running half marathons, going to concerts, and spending quality time with loved ones. Our flexibility with PTO and willingness to pitch in and help each other out makes this possible. I know that if I ever need help, it is just a text, call, or knock on the door away. Residency requires hard work and dedication, but when you are surrounded by others who share your priorities, it doesn’t have to be at the expense of the things you enjoy. This residency truly puts the “Family” in family medicine.” – Kyle Grover

“As a resident who welcomed a new baby during my first year, I can confidently say that this program goes above and beyond to support personal wellness and family life. From the moment I became pregnant, the program's leadership and staff were incredibly supportive, ensuring that all my prenatal appointments and time with my baby were prioritized. They recognized the importance of family and made it clear that my well-being and that of my child came first. They truly put the “family” in family medicine. The Iowa Lutheran Family Medicine Residency Program doesn’t just talk about work/life balance; they actively foster it. They encourage us to take time for ourselves outside of work and emphasize the importance of personal wellness. This supportive environment allows us to thrive not only as healthcare professionals but also as individuals with personal lives and responsibilities.” – Lexi Block

“At a small hospital like Lutheran, where we are the sole in-house residency program, we work closely with specialists on a daily basis. On our general medical service, we frequently collaborate with various specialists to provide comprehensive care for our hospitalized patients. In our 2nd and 3rd years, we rotate through these specialties, gaining valuable insights into patient care from their perspectives. Thanks in large part to our faculty, our program has built a strong reputation with local specialists, who are always pleased to recognize us as Lutheran residents. They are consistently willing to teach, share their approaches to patient care, and offer guidance on what we should know as future family medicine doctors.” – Taryn Hye

"In my training at Iowa Lutheran Hospital Family Medicine Residency, I've had the opportunity and privilege to work with medical specialists and experts who not only benefit the lives of my patients but who also take time and effort to improve my skills and knowledge. The relationships that we learn to cultivate throughout our three years at Iowa Lutheran Hospital begin with the network provided to us by our hospital system and afforded to us by the connections already built by our faculty members to UnityPoint Health's medical specialists. In this way, when we call for a consult or go on rotation to a specialist clinic site, we are not only there for our patients' health and well-being, our own learning and development, but to continue to foster a community of learners and support between specialty and primary care. I know anytime that a specialist makes a request of our service or whenever we need to reach out for a consult, it's with this confidence that I can approach the conversation and help UnityPoint Health's patients together." — Austin Pillon

“Twice a week, we have La Clínica where we focus on providing prenatal care to the underserved and underinsured. We are exposed to both low-risk and high-risk OB patients, including those with gestational diabetes, advanced maternal age, and thyroid disease. Having this variety of exposure has not only enhanced my clinical skills, but has also helped me build upon cultural awareness as a healthcare professional. Many times, we continue to care for both mom and baby after delivery, which is very rewarding!” – Victoria Whitcomb

"At our OB Clinic, which takes place twice per week, we are able to provide prenatal care to women who are of an underserved population, many of whom are uninsured, of low socioeconomic status and/or refugees. Being able to serve these women and their families and provide them with a high standard of care is incredibly rewarding." — Heidi Klingelhofer

"The Iowa Lutheran Hospital Family Medicine residency has dedicated time on Monday and Thursday afternoons where we see patients of "La Clinica." This is a clinic dedicated to obstetric care. Most patients are underserved and uninsured and many speak Spanish or other foreign languages. This is a great opportunity for residents to get experience with prenatal care for low-risk and high-risk pregnancies, as well as building cultural awareness around how a patient's health care experience is shaped by their cultural values and beliefs. Residents work together as a team when seeing patients so there is a lot of collaboration and teaching among the group. Teamwork makes the dream work!" — Jill Pollpeter

"The East Des Moines Family Care Center provides care to an extremely diverse patient population. We take care of patients of all ages allowing us the opportunity to work with infants, children, teens, adults and elderly individuals. We get practice working with many different cultures and learning how to take that into consideration when developing treatment plans. Many of our patients are underserved and/or underinsured, which provides an excellent learning opportunity to become more financially cognizant while practicing medicine. In our clinic, we have a pharmacist, community care coordinator, lab, X-ray and DEXA scanner available for use. This allows us to complete as much of a workup as possible while the patient is here and the chance to quickly walk over and chat with any of these services if we have questions. You gain more and more responsibility as you progress through residency, giving you plenty of autonomy, but attendings, co-residents and other support staff are always here and eager to help when needed!" — Alexia Fisher

“Des Moines is a great city, it is in the middle of Iowa and so we get a lot of patients that come from rule areas but we also get a lot of people from the city.It is a nice sized city and never takes longer than 20 to 30 minutes to drive across town even in high traffic days.There are a lot of great biking trails.One of my favorite parts about Des Moines is the Des Moines farmers market that starts in May and goes until September/October, it is a great place to meet up with friends get some breakfast and pick up some fresh produce.There are lots of different festivals downtown in Des Moines as well.Additionally, Des Moines is a very diverse city with people from all around the world, this is reflected in our restaurant choices we have Vietnamese food, Laotian food, Sudanese food, you name it with got it. Overall, it is a great place to live with plenty to do in your free time, it is a great place for people in all walks of life from early young professionals, to families!” – Kim Miller

“Des Moines is a hidden gem in the United States, offering a perfect blend of entertainment, safety, great food, and fantastic festivals. Iowa is much more affordable than other major cities, and Des Moines is growing rapidly. The city boasts amazing bike routes, breweries, beautiful parks, and a vibrant weekly farmers market. With so much to do that’s budget-friendly, Des Moines can easily meet the needs of anyone looking to move here.” – Dante Mautino

"Des Moines is the best of both worlds - a growing urban center with small town vibes and historic charm. The restaurant scene in Des Moines is booming, making living downtown a blast! Some of my local favorites include St. Kilda for breakfast, Iowa Taproom for Midwest comfort food and Hello Marjorie for drinks." — Matthew Molin

"Living in Des Moines has been a great adjustment for us. With kids, we are always looking for activities to do, and there are plentiful indoor and outdoor activities to fill our time. We also enjoy the perks of city life but still have places to seek out that are secluded and quiet. While overused, the 'it only takes 20 minutes to get there' saying runs true the majority of the time." — Taylor Dreise