History
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Over two decades of impact
Since its founding, the department has systematically built clinical, research, and educational programs that have become deeply integrated into the fabric of Penn Medicine’s academic and clinical programs, the University, and the community.
A greater focus on high-value care and population health as well as unmet community needs requiring coordinated action created the impetus for the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. We have built a strong slate of current programs in education, patient care, research, and community health initiatives that involve strong collaborative relationships with federally-qualified health centers and other health care entities in the community.
The Department is Founded
A greater focus on high-value care and population health as well as unmet community needs requiring coordinated action created the impetus for the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health.
First Department Chair is Appointed
Marjorie Bowman, MD, MPA, notably the first woman chair of a clinical department in the Perelman School of Medicine.
Residency Program Begins
Six residents are accepted to the inaugural Family Medicine residency class.
Sports Medicine Fellowship
The ACGME-accredited Sports Medicine Fellowship moves under the Department of Family Medicine.
Residency Program Expands
The department expands its class size from 18 total residents (6-6-6) to 27 total residents (9-9-9).
Appointment of Dr. Chyke Doubeni as Chair
Chyke Doubeni, MD, MPH is named Chair of the department. Under his leadership, the department creates two divisions: Family Medicine, and Community Health.
Global Health Fellowship
The Global Health Fellowship is established in collaboration with the Guatemala-Penn-Partners and the Hospitalito Atitlan.
Penn Family Care Relocates to 3737 Market Street
The Penn Family Care practice moves from the Andrew Mutch Building into the 9th floor at 3737 Market Street.
Relocation of Administrative and Faculty Offices
The 6th and 7th floors of the Andrew Mutch Building Renovations are completed and the administrative staff and faculty move in.
Practice Expansion
The department opens a second clinic, Penn Family Medicine, at Pennsylvania Hospital located at 8th and Spruce Streets in the historic Society Hill district of Philadelphia. The nation's first hospital has been a leader in patient care, treatment techniques and medical research for over 260 years.
Community Medicine Fellowship
The HRSA funded Community Medicine Leadership Fellowship for ACTION is established. The ACTION fellowship aims to strengthen the primary care workforce in underserved areas by supporting enhanced post-graduate training for primary care clinicians.
Appointment of Richard C. Wender, MD as Chair
Richard C. Wender, MD is named Chair of the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health.