Message from our Program Director

"Nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, UNC Health Blue Ridge is a community focused hospital with deep local roots and a strong commitment to medical education. Our Internal Medicine Residency Program reflects the values of the community we serve and the physicians we train.

We are a small, community based program that emphasizes individualized mentoring and close relationships between residents and faculty. Our residents care for a diverse patient population and gain broad experience in community based internal medicine while learning to practice with a strong focus on patient safety, professionalism, and high quality care.

Residents are supported by dedicated peers and faculty who are invested in their academic growth and career goals. Whether your interests include clinical practice, continued learning, or long term professional development, you will find a supportive environment designed to help you succeed. Our passion is to bring out the best in you as both a physician and a person."

About the Program Director

Dr. Kyle Burnette is the Program Director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at UNC Health Blue Ridge. He is a board certified Internal Medicine physician and a clinician with UNC Health Blue Ridge. Dr. Burnette earned his medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University with a focus in Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at UNC Health Blue Ridge (formerly Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge), where he developed a strong foundation in community based patient care.

As Program Director, Dr. Burnette is committed to resident education, mentorship, and fostering a supportive learning environment that prepares physicians for successful practice in a community setting.

Internal Medicine Faculty

Benjamin S. Field, DO
Benjamin S. Field, DO
Associate Program Director
Carolyn Gordon, MD
Carolyn Gordon, MD
Associate Program Director



Current Fellows

(Click image below to see larger poster)

internal-medicine-residents-2025

Recruitment Book

View our Graduate Medical Education Recruitment Booklet [PDF]


How to Apply

Please visit the ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) website to begin the residency application process.

UNC Health Blue Ridge participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) process. Please see the NRMP website for application, dates and deadlines.

Required materials:

  • ERAS application
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation from physicians who have supervised you in a clinical setting and an additional letter from specialty specific Department Chair, if applicable.
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • USMLE / COMLEX Scores
  • Medical School Transcript

Contact Us

For more information or if you have questions about our Internal Medicine Residency Program, please call 828-580-5357 or email the Internal Medicine Coordinator, or for our Gastroenterology Fellowship Program, please call 828-580-5366 or email the Fellowship Coordinator