Residency Programs at Episcopal Health Services: Training the Next Generation of Physicians
July 2, 2026
At Episcopal Health Services (EHS), our residency programs play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare while elevating the quality of care our patients receive today. Located on the Rockaway Peninsula, EHS is more than a community hospital, it’s a growing academic medical center where physicians train, collaborate and make a meaningful impact.
What Is a Residency Program and Why Does It Matter?
A residency program is the next step for medical school graduates, offering immersive, hands-on clinical training in a real-world healthcare setting. During this critical phase, physicians refine their skills, deepen their knowledge and learn how to care for patients independently under the guidance of experienced clinicians.
At EHS, residents are integral members of the care team, bringing fresh perspectives, research-driven insights and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centered care.
What Makes Residency Programs at EHS Unique?
EHS offers a distinctive residency experience that blends academic rigor with a close-knit, highly supportive environment.
As the only hospital serving the Rockaway Peninsula, EHS is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of a diverse and often underserved population. This provides residents with exposure to a broad spectrum of medical conditions and the opportunity to navigate real-world healthcare challenges.
What truly sets EHS apart is its personalized approach to training. With approximately 150 residents across seven programs, the hands-on training fosters:
- Direct access to leadership
- Individualized training experiences
- Strong mentorship and collaboration
At EHS, residents are more than participants in the program – they play an active role in shaping it.
A Holistic Approach to Training and Patient Care
EHS embraces a holistic approach to both patient care and resident training. The hospital actively recruits physicians from diverse backgrounds, including allopathic, osteopathic and international medical graduates, fostering a culture that values whole-person care and broad perspectives on health and wellness.
Residents are trained across a wide range of specialties, including:
- Internal Medicine
- Family Medicine
- General Surgery
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Dermatology
- Podiatry and Wound Care
- Physical Medication and Rehabilitation (affiliated with SUNY Downstate)
They also engage with innovative programs and services, such as mobile health units that deliver care directly to the community and expanded outpatient services at the Walsh Ambulatory Pavilion.
How Residents Enhance Patient Care
For patients, having a resident involved in their care can be a significant advantage. Residents bring fresh perspectives to each case, conducting in-depth research, thoroughly reviewing patient histories, and staying current on the latest medical advancements
This added layer of attention and collaboration often leads to more comprehensive and personalized care. At EHS, residents work closely with attending physicians, creating a team-based approach that strengthens outcomes and enhances the patient experience.
Supporting Residents, Professionally and Personally
EHS is deeply committed to supporting residents both inside and outside the hospital, with a strong emphasis on professional development, wellness and work-life balance initiatives.
Professional Development at EHS
Residents at EHS are encouraged to grow and excel through:
- Research and scholarly activity
- Quality improvement initiatives
- Conference participation
A Culture of Community, Innovation and Growth
Residents at EHS often describe the environment as family-oriented, collaborative and constantly evolving.
The hospital emphasizes:
- Continuous self-assessment and improvement
- Innovation in education and clinical training
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration
With access to an on-site simulation lab, residents can develop and refine their skills, create new training experiences and take an active role in shaping their educational journey.
Life After Residency: Building Careers and Leaders
Graduates of EHS residency programs go on to pursue:
- Specialized fellowships
- Leadership roles within healthcare organizations
- Continued careers at EHS
Many former residents ultimately return to EHS in leadership positions, which is a testament to the strength and lasting impact of the training experience.
Advancing Care Through Education
Residency programs are a cornerstone of EHS’ commitment to excellence. By investing in medical education, innovation and community-focused care, EHS is not only training the next generation of physicians, but it is improving healthcare for the Rockaway Peninsula today and for years to come.
Want to learn more?
Click here to learn more about our Medical Education programs at EHS and how to apply!