As July marks the beginning of a new academic year in graduate medical education (GME), thousands of physicians are stepping into their roles as residents and fellows. This transition is both exciting and challenging—filled with new responsibilities, environments, and expectations. The ACGME recognizes the importance of this pivotal moment, and we are committed to supporting residents, fellows, and the programs and institutions that educate, train, and guide them in this phase of their physician journey.
To provide additional assistance during this critical period of transition, we’ve gathered a collection of resources designed to promote well-being, foster professional growth, and ensure a smooth start to the road ahead. This list is not exhaustive, and new and revised resources are developed and shared regularly. Note that a free account is required to access most of the content in the ACGME’s digital learning platform, Learn at ACGME.
Resources for Residents/Fellows
Common Program Requirements and Specialty-/Subspecialty-Specific Requirements
An important resource throughout the year, but certainly as physicians begin a new program, the Common and specialty-/subspecialty-specific Program Requirements are available on the ACGME website for anyone to access. The Requirements shape how GME programs are structured and can help residents/fellows understand what to expect from their educational programs.
- The Common Program Requirements apply to all GME programs, regardless of specialty/subspecialty.
- The specialty-/subspecialty-specific Program Requirements (into which the Common Program Requirements are embedded, in bold font) can be accessed on the applicable specialty’s section of the ACGME website, on the Program Requirements and FAQs and Applications tab (the subspecialty documents are posted on the same tab of the specialty section associated with the specialty Review Committee that oversees that subspecialty).
- The ACGME’s Frequently Asked Questions page clarifies the ACGME’s role in GME, addresses common misconceptions, and includes answers intended to help improve understanding among the GME community and the public.
- The Back to Bedside initiative is designed to empower residents and fellows to develop transformative projects that foster meaning and joy in work. Keep this opportunity in mind as you progress through GME. Since its inception in 2017, the ACGME has funded more than 110 projects. Learn more and view the full list of projects on the ACGME website.
Milestones
The Milestones are an important component of the ACGME’s accreditation model. Residents and fellows in ACGME-accredited programs are assessed annually against the Milestones for their program’s specialty/subspecialty. The Milestones are intended to help learners, programs, and the ACGME Review Committees improve educational, assessment, and accreditation processes. They do not, however, describe or represent the totality of a clinical discipline, nor are they a curriculum in and of themselves. Rather, the Milestones should guide a thoughtful analysis of curriculum to identify strengths and gaps.
There are numerous Milestones-related resources, including a Milestones Guidebook for Residents and Fellows (authored by residents and fellows!). Review Milestones resources on the ACGME website.
Physician Well-Being
The ACGME’s commitment to improving and supporting physician well-being is codified in its Program Requirements and demonstrated by ongoing efforts to convene relevant organizations and leaders; curate tools and resources; dedicate funding and research efforts; and respond to concerns, complaints, and events affecting those in GME and in the broader medical education continuum. Medicine can be as trying and difficult a field as it is a rewarding one. The ACGME is dedicated to evaluating and continuing to develop requirements and resources to support physicians and physician learners.
- The ACGME has created and curated tools and resources related to implementing well-being activities throughout GME and the clinical learning environment, both for systems and for individuals, including residents and fellows. These resources are housed in Learn at ACGME. Some are open access; others are free but require a free account for the Learn platform; and a select few are proprietary.
- The ACGME Well-Being Podcast series addresses a variety of strategies for enhancing well-being across GME and features discussions with experts on topics like transitioning from medical school to residency, navigating traumatic events, fighting burnout and imposter syndrome, and more. Access the podcasts directly on Learn at ACGME (once logged in, filter by "Podcast" in the Content Catalog), or on Spotify or Apple (search for 'ACGME’).
- Mental Health and Well-Being During Transitions resources provide help to programs and institutions in supporting residents and fellows during this vulnerable period, as well as other key transitional times in their careers and lives.
Resident/Fellow Survey
The ACGME’s annual Resident/Fellow Survey provides the Review Committees with early warning of potential non-compliance with accreditation requirements. All accredited programs (regardless of size) are required to participate. More information on the surveys, their timing, and resources can be found on the ACGME website.
Ombudsperson
The ACGME’s Office of the Ombudsperson is a resource for residents and fellows. Learn more about this important, impartial, and independent resource for physician learners on the ACGME website.
Moving Forward Together
The start of a new academic year is a time of renewal and commitment to the noble pursuit of medicine. Whether you are beginning your residency or fellowship or continuing on the next step of your professional journey, know that the ACGME stands ready to support you every step of the way.
To explore more from the ACGME, we invite you to regularly visit our website and Learn at ACGME, where you’ll find current and valuable information, resources, and more.