Program Overview

Overview of the Program

Lead. Serve. Grow. Right Here.

Lowell CHC’s Family Medicine Residency is more than training — our program is designed for physicians who want to lead, serve, and grow in a supportive educational environment and community where care truly matters. As a resident, you won’t just be part of a program — you’ll be part of our mission and our community.



Shape Your Future in Family medicine

This 3-year ACGME-accredited program prepares physicians to deliver broad-spectrum, patient-centered care through community-based training that prioritizes compassionate care, service, and access for all.

We’re proud to be affiliated with the Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medicine, with residents completing rotations at Tufts Medicine’s Lowell General Hospital.


 
tufts school of medicine logo
tufts med logo

  • dr. cara marshall working with patient
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Built for Impact

Our residents train to meet complex needs, deliver care across every life stage, and build lasting patient relationships. You’ll graduate ready to lead — with the skills, values, and heart of a true family physician.

woman in scrubs

Class Size

6 Residents Per Year

video thumbnail eye care

Core Focus

Comprehensive Care, 
Health Systems, 
Community-Based Practice

family group in waiting room

Faculty

Dedicated Mentors with 
Deep Clinical Experience

Latest News & Announcements



About the Program



Training the Next Generation of Family Physicians in Lowell

Lowell Community Health Center is proud to launch a new Family Medicine Residency Program, accredited by the ACGME and built to expand access to care in Greater Lowell. This program prepares physicians to lead the future of family medicine — grounded in real-world training, and deep community connection.

For over 55 years, Lowell CHC has been a trusted healthcare home. With the start of this program, we’re building on that legacy — training family physicians who are ready to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Our first class of six residents begins in July 2026. This program isn’t just about education — it’s an investment in the future of care in Greater Lowell.

training pediatrics infant

Why Train at Lowell CHC?

This residency offers hands-on, mission-driven training shaped by strong partnerships and real-world care:

  • Academic Excellence: Affiliated with Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medicine, offering a rich mix of clinical and academic experience.
  • Hospital-Based Training: Inpatient rotations at Tufts Medicine’s Lowell General Hospital provide comprehensive exposure to acute care and complex cases.
  • Health Center-Based Learning: Outpatient training at Lowell CHC connects residents to primary care, behavioral health, and preventive services — all under one roof.
  • Built for the Real World: The curriculum prepares residents to practice broad-spectrum family medicine with confidence, compassion, and clinical skill.

Residents will build lasting relationships with patients, train alongside a collaborative care team, and graduate ready to lead in any setting.

Program Philosophy



A Program Designed for Future Physicians

Our goal is simple: to train exceptional family physicians who are ready to care for individuals and families across every stage of life — and to do it well.



Residents in the program will:

  • Build broad-spectrum skills through robust inpatient and outpatient training./li>
  • Gain experience caring for patients with complex medical needs./li>
  • Learn to deliver personalized, evidence-based care that prioritizes access and continuity./li>
  • Develop leadership skills to help shape the future of care — one patient, one community at a time.
  • You’ll train in a supportive, cross-disciplinary environment that reflects the realities of modern primary care.
  • You’ll learn to adapt to the evolving needs of the community.
  • And you’ll be part of a growing network of family physicians who are improving health outcomes every day.

This program is designed not only to train excellent doctors — but to expand access to care. In just its first three years, the residency will increase care capacity for more than 5,000 people in Greater Lowell.

Leadership Message



Dear Lowell CHC Family Medicine Residency applicants,

Greetings from Lowell! We are thrilled to have initial accreditation for our community health center-based Family Medicine Residency, supported by our strong academic affiliation with Tufts University School of Medicine. We will welcome our first class in 2026.

For more than five decades, Lowell Community Health Center has partnered with the people of Greater Lowell and grassroots organizations to strengthen community health, adjusting and adapting as needs change. We’re building on that experience to train broad-spectrum family physicians who are ready to meet the needs of their patients and communities throughout their careers.

With strong inpatient training at our local hospital, Tufts Lowell General, outpatient specialty rotations throughout Greater Lowell, a home base at Lowell Community Health Center for continuity and procedural clinics, and many other outpatient experiences – our residents will be deeply connected to our community from the start.

Lowell’s nickname is “Mill City,” named for the textile mills that defined the city in the 19th century. Since then, people from around the world have come here seeking opportunities and a better life for themselves and their families. That tradition continues today, with a patient population whose experiences reflect a wide range of journeys. They shape a city that’s full of energy—where you’ll find food from every corner of the globe, active community organizations, and vibrant festivals throughout the year. With UMass Lowell creating energy and new ideas, and Boston less than 40 minutes away, Lowell is a wonderful place to live with something for everyone.

I’ve spent my career in family medicine education, and it’s truly magical to be part of the journey as residents grow—starting out eager, uncertain, and sometimes overwhelmed, and becoming confident, accomplished family doctors. Our graduates will carry with them a strong foundation in family medicine and a deep commitment to their patients, ready to launch careers that make a lasting impact.

If you’re looking for a close-knit residency with strong community roots – and a training experience that prepares you to deliver compassionate, whole-person care across the lifespan, I can’t wait to learn more about your vision and goals in family medicine.

Cara Marshall, MD (she/her)
Lowell CHC Family Medicine Residency Program Director
Clinical Associate Professor, Tufts Department of Family Medicine

Faculty and Staff

Cara Marshall, MD

Program Director

Hometown: Leesburg, Florida Undergraduate: University of Florida (7-year BS/MD program) Medical School: University of Florida College of Medicine Residency: Montefiore Residency Program in Social Medicine – Family Medicine Academic Appointment: Associate Clinical Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine

Majed Abbas, MD

Core Faculty

Hometown: Watertown, MA Undergraduate: Boston University Masters: Boston University School of Medicine (Medical Science) Medical School: Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University Residency: Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Family Medicine

Jessica Fournier, MD

Core Faculty

Undergraduate: Georgetown University Post-Bacc: Harvard Extension School Medical School: UMass Medicine Residency: Tower Health Reading Family Medicine Fellowship: Caron Foundation

Jen Wolf, MD

Core Faculty

Hometown: Hyde Park, NY Undergraduate: Binghamton University Medical School: Wayne State University School of Medicine Residency: Lawrence Family Medicine Residency (Advanced Surgical Maternity Track)

Marian Younge, MD

Marian Younge, MD

Core Faculty

Hometown: Worcester, MA Undergraduate: Tufts University Medical School: University of Massachusetts Medical School Residency: Contra Costa Regional Medical Center

Marian Younge, MD

Nik Chaudhary

Program Coordinator

Hometown: Andover, MA Undergraduate: University of Massachusetts, Lowell Masters: MBA in Healthcare Management, University of Massachusetts, Lowell

Curriculum



3 Year Family Residency Program Schedule



3 Year Family Residency Program Schedule


Each cell represents 4 weeks

First Year (PGY1) Block Rotations



PGY1


Faculty Coordinator: Core Faculty Team

The Welcome to Lowell Experience gives new residents the tools and foundation they need for success over the next three years. Mornings are dedicated to clinic immersion, beginning with one-on-one precepting as residents become familiar with workflows, the EMR—and hearing their name paired with the word “Doctor.” A few mornings are also reserved for orientation to inpatient medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics services at Lowell General Hospital.

Afternoons focus on small-group didactics led by core faculty. These sessions help strengthen skills in areas such as EKG and chest x-ray interpretation, patient communication, and more. Residents will also take a community tour to get to know Lowell and the surrounding area—where they, and many of their patients, live, work, and play.

Each day, residents spend time with their new classmates, building the strong connections and group trust that will support them throughout residency—and often long after.

Inpatient Adult Medicine (8 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

The inpatient adult medicine rotation at Lowell General Hospital offers residents deep experience in the comprehensive, team-based care of hospitalized adults. Residents care for patients with a wide range of conditions—from common to complex—and benefit from exposure to the broad diversity of those who seek care at the hospital.

During this first-year rotation, residents work one-on-one with both core family medicine faculty and inpatient hospitalists, managing a panel of patients and developing clinical confidence.

Weekly noon case conferences and Grand Rounds provide structured learning, while bedside teaching is woven into each day. Residents also gain experience in the care of seriously ill patients, with the support of a skilled palliative care team.

Inpatient Adult Medicine Night Float (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

The inpatient adult medicine night float rotation at Lowell General Hospital offers the same depth of clinical experience as daytime rotations, with a focus on acute presentations and overnight admissions. During this block, R1 residents work one-on-one with inpatient hospitalists, caring for patients throughout the hospital—including the intensive care unit.

Faculty Coordinators: Jennifer Wolf, MD and Marian Younge, MD

During the obstetrics rotation at Lowell General Hospital, residents gain hands-on experience in labor and delivery while working with a multidisciplinary team that includes family medicine faculty, midwives, and OB/GYNs. Residents evaluate obstetric triage patients, interpret non-stress tests, manage labors, and, if desired, participate in cesarean sections. They also care for postpartum pairs, providing continuity through the perinatal period.

Inpatient Pediatrics (3 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Marian Younge, MD

This rotation provides residents with experience in the care of hospitalized infants and children within a community hospital setting. Supervised by Tufts Medicine pediatric hospitalists, residents learn to manage common pediatric conditions and to stabilize patients who require transfer to a higher level of care.

Newborn Nursery (1 Week)

Faculty Coordinator: Marian Younge, MD

Though this block is dedicated to newborn care, residents also care for newborns during the inpatient pediatrics rotation, depending on patient volume. In addition, during obstetrics, residents care for newborns they deliver, forming the foundation for mother-infant continuity. This experience is supervised by Tufts Medicine pediatric hospitalists.

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

In the latter half of the year, residents spend two weeks working with the multidisciplinary intensivist team. This rotation focuses on the evaluation, stabilization, and management of critically ill patients, including airway management and complex decision-making. Residents gain experience with goals-of-care discussions, supported by the palliative care team. This block prepares residents for the increased responsibility of their R2 year.

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

This rotation introduces residents to behavioral health care in a primary care setting. Working alongside psychiatric prescribers and therapists, residents gain skills in evaluating and managing mental health concerns commonly seen in outpatient care. The rotation also includes experience responding to urgent behavioral health needs through in-person evaluations.

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

This rotation offers a strong foundation in pediatric and adolescent primary care, including experience in school-based health centers at both a middle and high school. Residents work with pediatric providers and have focused time in the autism clinic. Additional exposure includes Pediatric GI, Neurology, and Cardiology clinics with Tufts specialists.

Faculty Coordinators: Marian Younge, MD and Majed Abbas, MD

Residents work directly with a local orthopedic specialist and receive hands-on training from family medicine faculty during procedure clinics. The experience is supplemented by workshops in casting, splinting, joint aspiration, and joint injections.

Faculty Coordinators: Marian Younge, MD and Jennifer Wolf, MD

Residents care for patients in the OB/Family Planning clinic at Lowell CHC alongside faculty, OB/GYNs, midwives, and nurse practitioners. The rotation focuses on evaluation and treatment of common gynecologic conditions, as well as prenatal care. Residents become proficient in pelvic exams, Pap smears, and contraception counseling, and gain experience with procedures such as LARC insertion and removal, endometrial biopsy, and point-of-care ultrasound.

Faculty Coordinator: Jessica Fournier, MD

Over the course of the three years residents will spend dedicated time learning the specific skills needed for the care of their geriatric patients. They will spend several sessions with our own geriatrician, Dr. Roberts, as they learn to evaluate issues with memory, function, mobility, medication management (and appropriate deprescribing), and prioritizing the patient’s values in care. There will also be opportunities for care in the community and management of nursing home patients.

Faculty Coordinator: Jennifer Wolf, MD

The dermatology rotation takes place at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, where residents work with a Tufts Medicine dermatologist. The experience is supplemented by time in procedure clinic with core family medicine faculty, performing skin biopsies and other common dermatologic procedures.

Faculty Coordinator: Cara Marshall, MD

The outpatient mix rotation occurs each year of residency and includes experience in surgical subspecialties (Urology, ENT, and eye care at Lowell CHC’s Eye Care Center), dental care in our in-house clinic, lactation services, POCUS, the internal LTBI clinic, and a variety of medical specialties.

Majed Abbas, MD

This rotation helps residents understand the Lowell community and the challenges of providing care in a low-resource urban area. Residents examine how social, economic, and environmental factors affect health and learn about local and statewide resources that support patients. The rotation also includes exposure to global health perspectives and the diverse backgrounds and health experiences of people living in Lowell.

Jessica Fournier, MD

This rotation serves as part of longitudinal coursework concerning health systems management and will concentrate on practical aspects of health management. Over the course of all three years we will cover the basics of the business of medicine including understanding types of medical practices, how insurance impacts patients and reimbursement, billing and coding, and the importance of QI in positively impacting patient outcome and streamlining office practices.

Electives are planned in coordination with the core faculty advisor to expand the breadth of experience and provide depth in a resident’s areas of interest. Each resident’s individualized learning plan guides elective selection. Pre-arranged electives are available in many areas, including hematology/oncology, gastroenterology, adolescent medicine, addiction services, palliative care, and others. Residents may also create custom electives.

Second Year (PGY2) Block Rotations



PGY2


Inpatient Adult Medicine (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

Residents manage a team of patients at Lowell General Hospital, working with family medicine faculty and inpatient hospitalists. Residents gain experience with a wide range of conditions and assume a supervisory role with interns and medical students. Weekly noon conferences and Grand Rounds continue, along with bedside teaching and coordination with the palliative care team for patients with serious illness.

Inpatient Adult Medicine Night Float (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

This night float rotation emphasizes acute care and hospital admissions. Early in the year, R2s work in teams with interns under hospitalist supervision. Later, they take on more independent responsibility while still being supervised.

Inpatient Pediatrics (2 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Marian Younge, MD

Residents supervise interns and manage a team of hospitalized children at Lowell General Hospital. Teaching is led by Tufts Medicine pediatric hospitalists and includes care of common pediatric conditions and stabilization of those needing specialty care.

Special Care Nursery (2 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Marian Younge, MD

Residents work one-on-one with a Tufts neonatologist in the Level II nursery, caring for infants requiring monitoring, feeding support, or transitioning from NICU care.

Adult ER (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Jennifer Wolf, MD

Residents work with emergency medicine attendings at both Lowell General ER locations, managing acute medical presentations, performing procedures, and gaining experience with fast-track care. POCUS is used frequently for diagnosis.

Pediatric ER (2 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Jennifer Wolf, MD

Residents care for children presenting to the ER with both common and uncommon conditions. The high-volume environment supports skill development and confidence.

Faculty Coordinator: Jessica Fournier, MD

This rotation gives residents exposure to patient-centered communication, advanced care planning, and symptom management at end-of-life. They collaborate with palliative care teams in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Faculty Coordinators: Marian Younge, MD and Jennifer Wolf, MD

Residents continue their development from R1, building independence in gynecologic procedures. The rotation includes training in colposcopy, menopause care, and prenatal care for higher-risk pregnancies.

Faculty Coordinator: Marian Younge, MD and Majed Abbas, MD

Residents work with an orthopedic specialist and continue their training in procedures including joint injections, casting, and splinting.

Cara Marshall, MD

This rotation includes outpatient experiences in general, bariatric, breast, and colorectal surgery. Residents also round at the hospital and participate in surgical procedures with a focus on suturing skills.

Faculty Coordinator: Cara Marshall, MD

This recurring rotation includes surgical subspecialties (Urology, ENT, and eye care), dental services, lactation, POCUS, the internal LTBI clinic, and various medical specialties.

Faculty Coordinator: Jessica Fournier, MD

The adolescent medicine rotation will take place primarily at our school-based health centers, and will focus specifically on care and issues pertinent to the adolescent including safety issues related to puberty, drug/alcohol use, driving, safe sex practices, and fostering a sense of independence and ownership of health in teen patients.

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

This rotation provides a strong foundation in pediatric primary care and includes school-based care at a local middle and high school. Residents also have focused time in the autism clinic and attend Pediatric GI, Neurology, and Cardiology clinics with Tufts specialists.

Faculty Coordinator: Jessica Fournier, MD

Over the course of the three years residents will spend dedicated time learning the specific skills needed for the care of their geriatric patients. They will spend several sessions with our own geriatrician, Dr. Roberts, as they learn to evaluate issues with memory, function, mobility, medication management (and appropriate deprescribing), and prioritizing the patient’s values in care. There will also be opportunities for care in the community and management of nursing home patients.

Electives are coordinated with the core faculty advisor to expand knowledge and skills in specific interest areas. Pre-arranged options include hematology/oncology, gastroenterology, adolescent medicine, addiction services, and palliative care. Residents may also design custom electives.

Majed Abbas, MD

This rotation deepens residents’ understanding of the Lowell community and challenges of providing care in a low-resource setting. It includes training on the social and environmental factors affecting health and an overview of local and statewide services. Residents also explore global perspectives relevant to Lowell’s international population.

Jessica Fournier, MD

This rotation serves as part of longitudinal coursework concerning health systems management and will concentrate on practical aspects of health management. Over the course of all three years we will cover the basics of the business of medicine including understanding types of medical practices, how insurance impacts patients and reimbursement, billing and coding, and the importance of QI in positively impacting patient outcome and streamlining office practices.

Third Year (PGY3) Block Rotations



3 Year Family Residency Program Schedule PGY3


Inpatient Adult Medicine (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

Senior residents at Lowell General Hospital lead care teams managing adults with a wide range of conditions, both common and complex. Residents supervise interns and medical students and participate in weekly case conferences and Grand Rounds. Teaching continues at the bedside, and residents collaborate with the hospital’s palliative care service for seriously ill patients.

Inpatient Adult Medicine Night Float (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

The night float rotation provides an opportunity for residents to manage acute presentations and admissions independently or with an intern, under the supervision of hospitalists.

Adult ER (4 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Jennifer Wolf, MD

Residents care for acutely ill patients at both the Main Campus and Saints Memorial Campus of Lowell General. They gain experience in urgent care, high-acuity triage, and fast-track medicine, and continue developing procedural skills such as laceration repair and incision and drainage. POCUS is used as a diagnostic tool.

Pediatric ER (2 Weeks)

Faculty Coordinator: Jennifer Wolf, MD

In this high-volume emergency department, residents gain experience with common and complex pediatric presentations. The rotation focuses on improving confidence and independence in pediatric emergency care.

Faculty Coordinator: Majed Abbas, MD

Residents provide pediatric and adolescent care in community-based settings, including middle and high schools. They spend time in the autism clinic and rotate through Pediatric GI, Neurology, and Cardiology clinics with Tufts specialists.

Faculty Coordinator: Jessica Fournier, MD

Over the course of the three years residents will spend dedicated time learning the specific skills needed for the care of their geriatric patients. They will spend several sessions with our own geriatrician, Dr. Roberts, as they learn to evaluate issues with memory, function, mobility, medication management (and appropriate deprescribing), and prioritizing the patient’s values in care. There will also be opportunities for care in the community and management of nursing home patients.

Faculty Coordinators: Marian Younge, MD and Jennifer Wolf, MD

Residents continue developing their outpatient procedural skills in gynecology and assume a lead role in counseling patients on topics such as contraception, infertility, menopause symptom management, and family planning. They provide prenatal care, including for high-risk pregnancies and early pregnancy loss.

Faculty Coordinator: Marian Younge, MD and Majed Abbas, MD

Residents refine orthopedic exam and management skills while working with a local orthopedist. The experience includes casting, splinting, aspiration, and joint injections under family medicine faculty guidance.

Faculty Coordinator: Jessica Fournier, MD
Majed Abbas, MD

Residents deepen their experience with behavioral health integration in primary care, conduct acute behavioral assessments, and co-manage patients with psychiatric prescribers. The rotation emphasizes developing comfort with mental health concerns in outpatient practice.

Cara Marshall, MD

Residents rotate through outpatient clinics in general surgery, bariatric, breast, and colorectal surgery. They also participate in inpatient rounds and operating room time with a general surgeon and podiatrist.

Majed Abbas, MD

This rotation deepens residents’ understanding of the Lowell community and challenges of providing care in a low-resource setting. It includes training on the social and environmental factors affecting health and an overview of local and statewide services. Residents also explore global perspectives relevant to Lowell’s international population.

Jessica Fournier, MD

This rotation offers advanced exposure to healthcare administration, including quality improvement, resource management, and leadership in primary care systems.

Faculty Coordinator: Cara Marshall, MD

Residents work with HIV and hepatitis care teams, learning evidence-based approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and longitudinal management. They gain experience with PrEP, screening, and patient counseling.

Faculty Coordinator: Cara Marshall, MD

This final outpatient mix rotation includes subspecialties in ophthalmology, ENT, urology, dental, and specialty clinics in LTBI, lactation, and more. Residents consolidate procedural and clinical skills in preparation for graduation.

Residents pursue deeper training in an identified area of focus such as GYN, addiction medicine, or population health, supported by mentoring and elective selection.

Electives support personalized learning goals and may include clinical, procedural, academic, or advocacy experiences. A scholarly elective option is available to complete quality improvement or research capstone projects.

How to Apply

We’re excited to welcome applicants who are ready to train where care makes a difference. The Lowell CHC Family Medicine Residency accepts applications from graduates of accredited U.S. allopathic and osteopathic medical schools, as well as international medical graduates.

Application Requirements

  • Submit your application through ERAS (NRMP number: TBD)
  • Include: Dean’s Letter, transcript, board scores, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation (at least one from a primary care physician — family medicine preferred)
  • USMLE or COMLEX Steps 1 & 2 must be passed with no more than two attempts per Step
  • Step 2 scores must be received by February 2026
  • Graduation from medical school must be within five years of the residency start date (exceptions considered for those with recent primary care experience)
  • Applications must be received by November 15, 2025


International Medical Graduates

  • ECFMG Certification is required (must be received by February 2026)
  • At least 6 months of U.S. or equivalent direct clinical experience with significant patient care responsibilities is required
  • Visa sponsorship: TBD


Interviews

Interviews will be held October–December 2025.

Both virtual and in-person formats will be available. For those interviewing virtually, optional in-person visits to our clinic and community will be offered. Invitations will be extended on a rolling basis.

Community Health and Service

Learning from the Community

Residents care for a patient population that brings a wide range of lived experiences, languages, and stories. They learn to:

  • Provide personalized care to individuals from all backgrounds
  • Deliver services in multiple languages with the help of trained interpreters and multilingual staff

Supported by academic affiliations with Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medicine, and with inpatient training at Lowell General Hospital, our residents graduate ready to lead — clinically strong and community-focused.

This is what makes training at Lowell CHC unique: your education is strengthened by the city and community you serve.

lchc community

Connected to Lowell

The Lowell CHC Family Medicine Residency is rooted in the people, places, and partnerships that define Greater Lowell. Our residents train in a city known for its cultural richness, local pride, and deep community ties. Here, learning goes beyond the exam room — it’s embedded in neighborhoods, schools, and organizations working every day to make health possible.

Partnering for Health and Opportunity



Residents gain real-world experience by working alongside long-standing community partners who address everything from food access and housing to education and youth development. These connections allow residents to better understand the lives of their patients — and become stronger advocates for their care.



Examples of Our Community Collaborations

Looking for more? Explore additional community resources here.

Living Here

About Lowell

Lowell, Massachusetts is a dynamic city where history and modern life blend seamlessly. Once a booming hub of textile manufacturing in the 19th century, Lowell now thrives as a culturally rich, forward-looking community. The city’s revitalized mill buildings and historic sites echo its industrial past, while its growing arts scene and urban energy reflect a vibrant present. Home to the University of Massachusetts Lowell, the city pulses with youthful innovation and academic spirit. Its neighborhoods—shaped by generations of immigrants from around the world—offer a rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and traditions, making Lowell a true mosaic of global heritage and local pride.



The cost of living in Lowell is relatively affordable compared to nearby cities like Boston. Housing costs are lower, making it an attractive option for people looking to live near Boston without the steep rent and real estate prices. The median home price in Lowell is generally more affordable than the state average, though prices have been rising in recent years due to the city’s revitalization efforts. Renters can expect to pay moderate prices for apartments, with many affordable options available, especially in older mill buildings that have been renovated to modern standards. Overall, Lowell offers a good balance of affordability and urban living, with a variety of housing types ranging from historic homes to modern apartments and condos.

Lowell boasts a thriving arts and culture scene that draws visitors from near and far. The city is home to the Lowell National Historical Park, where visitors can explore the city’s industrial past through historic mills and canals. The Whistler House Museum of Art and The Brush Art Gallery highlight local and regional art, while the Merrimack Repertory Theatre offers a rich selection of live performances. Lowell also hosts a variety of cultural festivals and events, such as the Lowell Folk Festival, which celebrates the city’s immigrant communities with music, food, and art.

In terms of dining, Lowell offers an impressive mix of ethnic restaurants, local eateries, and trendy spots. The city’s Downtown area has a range of options from Asian fusion to farm-to-table establishments. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lowell offers a variety of parks, walking trails, and the scenic Merrimack Riverwalk, perfect for walking, biking, or simply enjoying the views. The nearby Lowell-Dracut-Tyngsborough State Forest provides additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and picnicking. Residents can also explore the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, a multi-use path ideal for walking, running, and cycling.

For more things to do and local events, visit Like Lowell and the City’s Cultural Affairs and Special Events page.

Lowell’s prime location makes it a well-connected hub in the Merrimack Valley. Just 30 miles (48 km) north of Boston, the city is within an easy drive of Logan International Airport, offering seamless access to both domestic and international travel. Lowell is also about 35 miles (56 km) from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in New Hampshire, giving residents flexible options for regional flights.

Commuters and adventurers alike benefit from Lowell’s strong transportation infrastructure, including access to major highways like I-495 and U.S. Route 3, as well as MBTA commuter rail service to Boston. Nearby Nashua, New Hampshire, just 17 miles (27 km) away, adds to the convenience with additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or a quick day trip, Lowell’s accessibility makes it an ideal place to live, work, and explore.

FAQs

Application Process



We accept applications from graduates of accredited U.S. allopathic and osteopathic medical schools, as well as international medical graduates who meet our requirements.

Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Be sure to include your Dean’s Letter, transcript, board scores, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation (at least one from a primary care physician — family medicine preferred).

Applications must be received by November 15, 2025.

Applicants must pass USMLE or COMLEX Steps 1 and 2 with no more than two attempts per step. Step 2 results must be submitted by February 2026.

Yes. IMGs must have ECFMG certification by February 2026 and at least 6 months of U.S. or equivalent clinical experience with direct patient care responsibilities.

Visa sponsorship is currently TBD.

Interviews



October through December 2025.

We offer both options. Virtual interviewees may also opt to visit our clinic and community in person. Invitations are extended on a rolling basis.

Program Structure



Three years.

Six residents per class.

  • Inpatient training takes place at Tufts Medicine’s Lowell General Hospital.
  • Outpatient training takes place at Lowell CHC, the home base of the residency program and where residents will build strong relationships with patients and the care team.

Broad-spectrum family medicine, health systems, and community-based care.

Learning Environment



The curriculum includes hands-on clinical training, didactics, community-based experiences, and leadership development.

Yes. Residents participate in quality improvement, clinical inquiry, and community health projects.

Yes. Each resident is paired with faculty mentors for guidance and professional growth.

Salary and Benefits



  • PGY-1: $69,488
  • PGY-2: $72,020
  • PGY-3: $75,175

As outlined in the GME Paid Time Off and Leaves of Absence Policy.

Yes. Residents receive 3 days of CME leave annually.

  • PGY-1: $750
  • PGY-2: $1,250
  • PGY-3: $1,500
  • USMLE Step 3 fees are covered.
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance – Eligible on date of hire
  • Life Insurance – Paid by Lowell CHC at twice annual salary, with optional extra coverage
  • Short-Term Disability – Paid by Lowell CHC; begins on day 15 after illness/injury and lasts 13 weeks
  • Long-Term Disability – Paid by Lowell CHC; begins after 90 days; optional extended coverage available

Yes. A 403(b) plan is available with optional participation. There is no employer match.

Yes. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to all residents.

Tips for Applicants

  • Apply early to ensure full consideration.
  • Be thoughtful and specific in your personal statement.
  • Highlight experience in community health or working with diverse populations.
  • Choose recommenders who can speak to your clinical and interpersonal strengths.
  • Learn about Lowell CHC and our mission to serve the community.


Have more questions? Reach out to our Program Coordinator using the Contact Us form [link coming soon] — we’re here to help.