J-1 Physicians

Corewell Health – Grand Rapids/Michigan State University residency and fellowship programs sponsor international medical graduates with a J-1 Visa. Further information on application materials is available at www.ecfmg.org.

Close-up of a stethoscope with a transparent globe, symbolizing global healthcare and international medical practice.
Close-up of a stethoscope with a transparent globe, symbolizing global healthcare and international medical practice.

Resources offered by Corewell Health in West Michigan

Our graduate medical education department offers tailored resources to meet the unique needs of J-1 physicians, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Information regarding when and how to apply for a National Provider Identifier (NPI) and Social Security number are provided during the onboarding checklists. Further information regarding setting up a banking account and other administrative items are covered during the J-1 physician orientation sessions. In addition to these informational sessions, OME also hosts a J-1 physician culture exchange program that offers opportunities for our J-1 physicians to gather and share a meal with each other and their families. These sessions offer an opportunity to host guest speakers and discuss topics that are relevant to the J-1 physician.

Physician Mentorship: Incoming J-1 resident physicians are paired with a senior J-1 resident physician in our mentorship program to provide resources for communication and guidance throughout their first year.

Bilingual Staff Training Scholarships: For residents and fellows who are fluent in a language other than English, OME offers scholarships to become a qualified bilingual provider, providing the opportunity for learners to communicate and care for patients in their selected [or preferred] language. Certification is active for the duration of employment with Corewell Health in West Michigan and does not require recertification.

As you move through the application or recruitment process your program coordinator can help you connect to our TPL. 

Transportation: To aide in the transition to Grand Rapids, Michigan living, the Office of Medical Education (OME) offers free transportation to and from the hospital through the first block of the academic year. Transportation is provided through the department’s Uber account and is offered for work purposes only.

In addition to Uber, Grand Rapids has an extensive bus system that extends throughout the city. To learn more about the bus system, visit Ride the Rapid.

Michigan is an amazing place to live with four distinct seasons, each offering unique and exciting events to partake in, no matter the weather. It’s important to understand the climate changes that Michigan presents to know how to best prepare for your day. 

Michigan is an amazing place to live with four distinct seasons, each offering unique and exciting events to partake in, no matter the weather. It’s important to understand the climate changes that Michigan presents to know how to best prepare for your day. 

Discover the Cultural Riches of Grand Rapids, Michigan

Welcome to Grand Rapids, a city brimming with cultural experiences and artistic treasures! Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here's a glimpse of what Grand Rapids has to offer: 

Find a list of organizations throughout Grand Rapids that support international community members, such as the ones here:

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