Curriculum Overview

3+1 Resident Block Schedule

Since July 2019, the Pediatrics Residency Program at UTCOM-Chattanooga has participated in an ACGME-approved X+Y (3+1) immersion schedule. In this format, each resident spends three weeks on a core or block rotation followed by one week of ambulatory pediatrics. The goal of this scheduling format is: 

• Improved patient continuity in pediatric resident clinics
• Less conflict between inpatient and ambulatory responsibilities
• Improvement in resident wellness, leading to less burnout
• Improved patient and resident satisfaction

Sample 3+1 Rotation Master Schedule

Not all residents can be on the 3 week portion or 1 week portion at the same time. We have established 4 cohorts of residents across all PGY levels. Each cohort should include 2-3 residents in each PGY level. Once a resident is in a cohort, they remain in the same cohort for the year. At the beginning of an academic year, the cohorts are staggered and rotations may be shortened to begin the recurring 3+1 pattern.

Sample Block Rotation (in weeks)

Ambulatory/ Continuity Clinic

Sample Ambulatory Week

Intern Bootcamp

One unique aspect of the 3+1 schedule at UTCOM is the inclusion of an initial four-week bootcamp month. New interns spend one week in each of the key areas of the hospital: inpatient wards, night float, newborn nursery and ambulatory clinic, allowing interns to understand the workings of the entire system beginning with the first month of their residency. *In the color graphic above, the weeks of bootcamp are counted as part of the clinical rotations, rather than their own bootcamp rotation.

Sample Bootcamp Rotation Schedule

Sample Bootcamp Didactic Schedule

New residents receive special lectures during the month of July to further ease the transition from medical school to residency. The responsibilities of a resident can be a large jump from the role of a medical student and these lectures lay out expectations and include small group workshops. All residents participate in the Friday lecture block during bootcamp for refresher lectures.

Didactic Teachings