Frequently Asked Questions

What is the work-Life Balance of the Program?

Most would agree that the work-life balance at Ascension St. Vincent is quite favorable. Busier rotations such as Adult Internal Medicine Service (“AIMS”) and ICU require more time in the hospital but are comparable to most other programs. Most other rotations provide plenty of time to enjoy hobbies outside of the hospital. Wellness is incorporated with the internal medicine program including Third Thursday socials, holiday celebrations, friendly competitions, athletic teams and more! 

Do I have to use all my vacation days at one time?

Vacation days can be used only on elective months in any number of days at a time. The only requirement is that you be present for at least 10 days of your four week elective rotation (i.e. you can’t take an entire elective month off). Vacation requests should be submitted six weeks prior to an elective in order to be approved.

Is there free food?

Yes. Hot breakfast served weekdays 7-9:30a in the physicians’ lounge. Cold deli sandwiches, soup/salad for lunch from 11a-1p. Snacks (chips, crackers, granola bars, bagels), drinks, coffee always available. 

Every resident is also provided with an annual meal card with $1,000 in funds for use at the cafeteria, on-site cafes and Starbucks. 

What is call like?

For inpatient wards (AIMS) we are on an every fourth day team call model. Please see the Internal Medicine website for further details.

While on elective rotations, residents will cover “Jeopardy Call” approximately 6-8 times throughout the month. This is a backup home call shift where you will only be called in if another resident is unable to cover their AIMS/ICU shift due to illness, etc.

For ICU: you are typically there every day from 7a-6p.

Where do residents generally live?

Residents live in a variety of locations and living situations. There are many affordable apartment options within 5-10 minutes of the hospital, but many people live downtown, in Carmel, Westfield, or Broad Ripple. Some residents rent, and some buy. Most residents live within 30 minutes of the hospital, and commuting is generally easy. Applicants who match at Ascension St. Vincent will be provided with a housing guide created by current and former residents to help them navigate this transition.

What is the relationship between TY residents and the internal medicine department?

As TY residents, you will work closely with the internal medicine residents. The camaraderie between the two departments is extraordinary, and all TY residents are viewed as a valuable member of the medicine team.

What does a typical day look like?

Breakdown of a usual day on AIMS (Adult Internal Medicine Service):
  • 6:45a arrive, pre-round on patients
  • Round with team (timing varies)
  • 12-12:45p didactics/clinical reasoning conference (CRC)
  • 1-3p work on notes, patient care
  • 1-4pm work on notes, admissions patient care
  • 4-6pm call begins with your team
  • 6pm earliest you can sign out to the night team 
ICU:
  • 6:45a arrive, pre-round on patients
  • Round with team (timing varies)
  • 12:00p noon conference (optional)
  • 1-6p work on notes, patient care, admit patients
  • 6pm handoff to night team and go home

*ICU weekend days have the same schedule as weekdays.

Is parking available?

Yes - there is free parking on campus for all associates located just outside the hospital - both in an open-air lot as well as in a covered garage (ID-badge protected).