Message from the Residency Director

Greetings,

On behalf of our entire faculty, staff, and residents, I am delighted to welcome you to the Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program, proudly affiliated with Wake Forest University. We are thrilled that you are considering our program for your residency training. 

Our program is deeply committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment that prepares residents to excel in all aspects of family medicine. At Atrium Health, we believe in the importance of comprehensive, patient-centered care and the role family physicians play in improving the health and well-being of our communities. 

Why Choose Us?

• Well-Established History: We are a very well-established, community-based program, dating back to 1973 when Family Medicine first became a specialty. Fully accredited by the ACGME, our program has a long-standing tradition of excellence in training family physicians. Residents are involved with various aspects of advocacy for physicians and policy on the state level with the NC Academy of Family Physicians and nationally with the American Academy of Family Physicians.
• Innovative Curriculum: Our residency program offers a robust and flexible curriculum that balances inpatient and outpatient experiences. We emphasize evidence-based medicine, hands-on procedural training, and the development of strong clinical skills.
• Diverse Clinical Experiences: Our three tracks provide a fertile learning ground for residents to learn in both the strong academic environment at CMC and the community environments at CMC Mercy and Atrium Health Union. This variety ensures our graduates are well-equipped to practice in any setting. 
• Commitment to Underserved Communities: We are passionate about serving underserved populations and reducing healthcare disparities. Our program provides numerous opportunities to engage in community outreach and develop skills in caring for marginalized groups. 
• Personalized Mentorship: Our dedicated faculty are committed to your personal and professional growth. We offer individualized mentorship to help you achieve your career goals, whether in academic medicine, clinical practice, or leadership roles. 
• Collaborative Learning Environment: We foster a culture of collaboration and mutual support. Our residents are a close-knit group who work together and learn from one another, creating a strong sense of community within our program. 
• Outstanding Faculty: Our faculty have expertise that runs the full scope of family medicine, providing residents with a comprehensive and well-rounded education. 
• Research and Scholarship: Our program boasts an active research department that has participated in multiple grants, contributing significantly to family medicine. Family medicine residents and faculty have published abstracts and articles in journals and delivered regional and national presentations in family medicine, sports medicine, geriatrics, maternal health, LGBTQ+ care, behavioral health, palliative care, primary care research, and national medical student associations. Also, our affiliation with Wake Forest University provides access to many resources and opportunities for academic advancement. 
• Advocacy and Leadership: Residents are involved with various aspects of advocacy for physicians and policy on the state level with the NC Academy of Family Physicians and nationally with the American Academy of Family Physicians. We encourage active participation in advocacy to develop leaders who will shape the future of healthcare. 
• Board Pass Rate: We are proud to have a 100% board pass rate, which reflects the strength of our program and the quality of training we provide. Our graduates are well-prepared to take on the challenges of family medicine and serve their communities with confidence.

Join Us

As we embark on this interview season, we are excited to meet prospective residents who share our commitment to excellence in family medicine. We look forward to getting to know you and discussing how our program can help you achieve your professional aspirations. 

Thank you for considering the Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program. We invite you to explore our website, learn more about our program, and reach out with any questions. We are confident that our residency will provide you with a solid foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career in family medicine. 

Warm Regards,

Shala Sundaram, MD, FAAFP 
Program Director, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program
Assistant Professor, Wake Forest University, School of Medicine