SAVANNAH, Ga. () — A $10 million grant from the state of Georgia will back a new physician residency program at St. Joseph’s/Candler beginning in 2027.

Already the largest health system in the region, this expansion will help address the need for doctors in the region and state.

The program will offer two tracks: Internal Medicine and Family Medicine. The capacity will begin at 48 residency slots and will increase to 60 with the expansion of other residencies, such as cardiology fellowship.

President and CEO of St. Joseph’s/Candler Paul P. Hinchey said, “This is a sentinel moment for St. Joseph’s/Candler to offer a residency program, the final and most important step in a physician’s education.

Hinchey said, “We believe this program will make a significant dent in the doctor shortage Georgia is facing, incentivizing these physicians to stay in Georgia, giving our patients better access to care.”

The hospital has already begun a nation-wide search for the Dean, who will start in October.