Welcome to PIH Health Family Medicine Residency in Downey

Founded in 1993, our residency program has grown alongside the Downey community. It was originally part of Rio Hondo Hospital, then the program later moved to Downey Community Hospital—now PIH Health Downey Hospital after joining the PIH Health network in 2013.

We are proud to be an ACGME-accredited Family Medicine Residency with a strong tradition of teaching and mentorship. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to train the next generation of family medicine physicians who deliver high-quality, compassionate care to all patients, without discrimination.

At PIH Health Downey Hospital, residents develop their skills in an ethical, safe, and patient-centered environment, preparing them to serve diverse communities with excellence.

PIH Health Downey Hospital is a 199-bed, non-profit community hospital in the city of Downey. Adjacent to the hospital, our Family Medicine Residency medical office provides comprehensive care to a diverse patient population—offering residents rich clinical experiences and meaningful community connections.

What Makes Our Program Unique

Sports Medicine Track

Residents interested in sports medicine gain hands-on experience caring for athletes in our community. From local high school teams to community sporting events, residents work closely with faculty who have specialized training in sports medicine.

Teaching Opportunities

Our residents play an active role in teaching medical students during their clerkships. This not only reinforces clinical knowledge but also builds skills in mentorship and leadership—valuable for future academic or clinical careers.

Unopposed Program

As the only residency program at PIH Health Downey Hospital, our residents have direct access to a wide range of clinical experiences without having to compete with other specialties. This means more procedures, more one-on-one teaching, and a stronger connection with faculty and patients.

Learn more about our program:

Take a tour of the Downey campus and Labor & Delivery

Resident Life

Residency is demanding, but at PIH Health Downey Hospital, we emphasize community, balance, and wellness. Our residents are supported professionally and personally to stay healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Program Traditions & Events

• Meet & Greet Breakfast Reception
• Welcome Dinner
• Thank a Resident Day
• Annual Doctor’s Day Celebrations
• Annual Weekend Retreats
• Wellness & Teambuilding Activities
• Community Outreach Programs
• Graduation Ceremony & Celebration

Life Outside of Work

We are a close-knit and social group. Outside of residency, our residents enjoy:

• Outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and surfing
• Exploring museums, art shows, and cultural events
• Enjoying Southern California’s food, shopping, beaches, and theme parks

Where We Live

Our residents live throughout the greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas, including:
Downey, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, Fullerton, Anaheim, Long Beach, Irvine, Hacienda Heights, Montebello, Costa Mesa, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Arts District (DTLA), Rowland Heights, Huntington Beach, and Whittier.

Where Our Graduates Go

• Hospitalist Medicine
• Private Practice
• Primary Care in large medical groups
• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
• Fellowships in Geriatrics, Obstetrics, and Sports Medicine
• Urgent Care Centers

How To Apply

Thank you for considering PIH Health Downey Family Medicine Residency! We are looking for applicants who value inclusivity, service, and high-quality care—particularly for underserved and marginalized communities.

We participate in Electronic Residency Application Services (ERAS) and the National Residency Match Program (NRMP).

Requirements:

• MyERAS Common Application
• Personal Statement
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Medical School Transcripts
• Photo
• Three Letters of Recommendation
  • One must be a Family Medicine physician
  • Two must be from U.S. physicians
• MSPE (Dean’s Letter)
• USMLE Step 1 & 2 or COMLEX Level 1 & 2 (Step 2/Level 2 scores required before February)
• Pre-employment drug testing and a background check will be conducted at the time of hire, as well as verification of required academic, educational, or prior training credentials

Please note:

• All documents must be submitted through ERAS (no emailed/paper applications)
• The program does not sponsor J-1 or H-1B visas