June, 2001
In practice: Integris Family Care, Yukon, OK

I enjoyed Great Plains' "real world" training atmosphere at a non-academic center setting and having rotations with private practice physicians. I was treated like a real physician by nurses and ancillary staff at the hospitals. There were no competing residencies and no in-house call for the last two years, which allowed for moonlighting opportunities which were also terrific learning experiences. We were treated with respect and encouraged to think and act on our own, creating an independent style of learning which translates to private practice very well. The residency inside a health network system gave me an opportunity to learn firsthand what private practice might look like...this is also highlighted by faculty members who have practices themselves. I felt very prepared for private practice - even though I had to do the army thing first!