Graduate Medical Education at
UNC Health Blue Ridge
Program Overview

Welcome to UNC Health Blue Ridge's Graduate Medical Education Program! Our program is designed to provide comprehensive training and exceptional mentorship in a supportive and dynamic environment. Located in the picturesque town of Morganton, North Carolina, our programs offer a unique blend of rigorous academic and clinical experiences, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a vibrant community life.
Join us to embark on a rewarding journey that will shape your career and help you become a leader in the field of medicine.
Internal Medicine Residency Program
UNC Health Blue Ridge Internal Medicine Residency program is a small training program located in western North Carolina. The program is designed to provide broad-based training for physicians who wish to practice in rural areas. LEARN MORE
Gastroenterology Fellowship
Welcome to the Gastroenterology Fellowship Program at UNC Health Blue Ridge located in Morganton, North Carolina. We are excited that you have chosen to review our program. LEARN MORE
Salary and Benefits
Salaries
Current salaries for House Staff in the Graduate Medical Education Programs at UNC Health Blue Ridge are as follows:
| PGY-1 |
$55,515 |
| PGY-2 |
$57,500 |
| PGY-3 |
$60,000 |
| PGY-4 |
$64,559 |
| PGY-5 |
$66,812 |
| PGY-6 |
$69,833 |
Benefits
Current benefits for House Staff in the Graduate Medical Education Programs at UNC Health Blue Ridge are as follows:
- Medical, Dental, Prescription drug plan, and Vision insurance available
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- Group life insurance; Short and long-term disability through UNC Health Blue Ridge
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- Tax deferred annuity (403b)
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- Discounted membership at Phifer Family YMCA
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- Employee Wellness Program
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- Employee Assistance Program
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- Medical and daycare spending accounts available
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- North Carolina Resident Training License Reimbursement
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- COM LEX 3 OR USM LE Step 3 Exam Reimbursement (passing score required)
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- $1,000 Moving Allowance Reimbursement (Incoming class of residents only, reimbursed per IRS guidelines)
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- BLS, and ACLS Certifications provided on-site
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- Appropriate Specialty Society dues reimbursement
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- Medical Malpractice Insurance provided
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- Medical and daycare spending accounts available
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- Resident lounge, call rooms, conference room, and library provided.
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Vacation / Time Off
PGY-1
- 22 vacation days each academic year to be used for personal time off, or sickness/ emergency.
- Five (5) additional days will be allowed for COM LEX 3/USMLE 3 exams, or poster presentation.
PGY-2 through PGY-6
- 22 vacation days each academic year to be used for personal time off, sickness/ emergency, or interviews.
- Six (6) additional days for interviews over the course of your residency/fellowship.
- Five (5) additional days are allowed to be used for CME at National Conferences or Specialty Board Exams.
CME Allowance
Residents are allowed a total of $5,100 over a 3-year residency period for scholarly activities. The $5,100 is divided over each academic year and the funds are available July 1, through June 30, as listed below:
| PGY-1 |
$1,000 |
| PGY-2 |
$1,200 |
| PGY-3 |
$2,500 |
Fellows are allowed a total of $8,100 over a three-year period for scholarly activities. The $8,100 is divided over each academic year and the funds are available July 1, through June 30, as listed below:
| PGY-4 through PGY-6 |
$2,700 |
Uniforms
Two (2) lab coats and laundry service provided
Meals
Quarterly meal points are provided quarterly for use in the two hospital cafeterias. Meals are provided for select lectures and weekend/night shifts.
Moonlighting
PGY-2 through PGY-6 residents and fellows are allowed to moonlight assuming program director and DIO approval of the activity.
There is a popular in-house voluntary moonlighting opportunity available.
Parking
Free covered and reserved parking for residents
Social Events / Activities
- Departmental activities (e.g. picnics, dinners)
- Several team building activities throughout the academic year
- Resident retreat
- Formal graduation banquet
- Annual Wellness Week
- Partnership with Campbell University Simulation Workshop Training
Where You'll Work
UNC Health Blue Ridge

UNC Health Blue Ridge is a premier community healthcare system, delivering cutting-edge healthcare and wellness services from over 50 locations across three counties in Western North Carolina. As the region's sole Level III Trauma Center, we provide advanced trauma care right in your neighborhood. Our system features a hospital with two locations, a continuing care retirement community, and a dedicated team of nearly 150 primary care physicians, specialists, and extenders in the Blue Ridge Medical Group, all working together to serve our community with excellence.
Morganton, NC
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Morganton, North Carolina, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Known for its stunning landscapes, Morganton provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. The town boasts a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage, featuring local festivals, farmers' markets, and a thriving arts scene. With its affordable cost of living, excellent schools, and friendly atmosphere, Morganton is an ideal place to live and work, providing a supportive environment for both personal and professional growth.
Learn more about our beautiful area at: Burke County Tourism (Restaurants, Things to Do, & Lodging in Morganton, NC)
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