As rural communities across Kansas face an increasing demand for healthcare providers, the Smoky Hill Family Medicine Residency Program in Salina is dedicated to preparing the next generation of physicians to serve these areas. Through an immersive, hands-on approach, the program equips doctors with the skills and experience needed to meet the unique challenges of rural medicine.
A Residency Program Built for Rural Healthcare
The three-year family medicine residency program at Smoky Hill is specifically designed to train physicians for rural practice. Led by Program Director Dr. Kimberly Williams, the program seeks highly motivated candidates who are passionate about improving healthcare access in Kansas communities.
Prospective residents apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), where selection is based on board scores, clinical experience, leadership abilities, and personal qualities. While a prior connection to Kansas is not required, the program prioritizes candidates who align with its mission of enhancing rural healthcare.
A Personalized Recruitment Experience
To accommodate applicants, Smoky Hill offers both in-person and virtual interviews. These interviews provide candidates with opportunities to engage with faculty, residents, and program leaders, gaining valuable insights into the residency experience.
For those who visit Salina in person, the interview process includes hospital and clinic tours, allowing applicants to explore the program’s state-of-the-art facilities and experience its welcoming culture firsthand.
Call Back Weekend: A Taste of Salina
A highlight of the recruitment season is Call Back Weekend, a special event that brings selected candidates back to Salina for a deeper connection with the community. One of the weekend’s signature events is the Downtown Food Crawl, where attendees visit local businesses along Santa Fe Avenue, experiencing the unique charm of the city.
This year’s featured locations included:
- Salina Selfie Station – A fun stop for capturing memories
- Blue Skye Brewery – Local craft beer and wood-fired pizza
- The Cellar – A relaxed setting with handcrafted cocktails
- Red Fern Bookstore – A cozy independent bookstore
- Prairieland Market – A hub for fresh, locally-sourced goods
- 1858 Coffee House – A welcoming café for specialty coffee and conversation
The goal of Call Back Weekend is to foster meaningful interactions between prospective residents and the program, ensuring a strong mutual fit. As both Smoky Hill and applicants finalize their rank order lists for the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), the program remains confident in attracting another outstanding class of dedicated rural family medicine physicians.
Committed to Kansas' Healthcare Future
Through a rigorous training experience, community engagement, and a strong support system, the Smoky Hill Residency Program continues to shape the future of rural medicine. By selecting and developing skilled, compassionate, and mission-driven physicians, the program is making a lasting impact on Kansas' healthcare landscape—one doctor at a time.
