AltaMed Health Services Program
Location:
Los Angeles, CASpecialty:
Sports medicine (Family medicine)ACGME Code:
1270512005Sports Medicine Fellowship Program
The Sports Medicine Fellowship Program at AltaMed is designed to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education in sports medicine, emphasizing the importance of serving the community and advancing clinical skills. This fellowship is especially tailored for those passionate about integrating sports medicine practices with primary care in diverse populations.
Program Highlights
Clinical Exposure
Fellows are engaged in clinical work within a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), which offers invaluable experience in continuity clinics and sports medicine clinics. Such exposure enables fellows to develop practical skills in a variety of settings, continually enhancing their clinical acumen while addressing the health needs prevalent in underserved communities 1.
Didactic Learning
Protected didactic time is allocated for structured learning, allowing fellows to interact with both academic and clinical material thoroughly. This ensures that they don't miss out on critical educational opportunities amid their clinical duties.
Diverse Rotations
The program includes diverse rotations through multiple settings such as academic medical centers, community-based clinics, and private practices. This variety helps fellows gain a broad perspective on sports medicine, integrating knowledge from different healthcare frameworks into their practice 1.
Community-Oriented Faculty
The fellowship is guided by faculty deeply committed to providing excellent care to underserved populations. Mentorship is a core aspect, with faculty members focusing on nurturing the next generation of sports medicine physicians.
Curriculum
The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of sports medicine specialties, including Pediatric Sports Medicine, Sports Orthopedics, Spine Surgery, Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Training, Adaptive Sports Medicine, and Foot and Ankle Surgery 1. Additionally, fellows can pursue elective rotations in specialized areas such as Rheumatology and Cardiology, allowing for further customization based on their interests.
Salary and Benefits
AltaMed strives to support its fellows financially and offers a competitive compensation package. The salary is set at $75,484, with additional benefits including an educational stipend of $1,000, a housing stipend of $10,000, a relocation stipend of $2,000, and reimbursement for California Medical License and DEA fees. Other benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, malpractice insurance, paid time off, and contributions to a 403(b) retirement plan 1.
Application Requirements
To apply for the Sports Medicine Fellowship, candidates must complete an ERAS application along with specific documentation such as three letters of recommendation, including one from a sports medicine physician, a Dean's letter, a medical school transcript, and a personal statement. Applications are reviewed upon submission, and the deadline is set annually 1.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are encouraged to engage in research through the AltaMed Institute for Health Equity. This allows fellows to conduct mentor-guided research focusing on health equity, injury prevention programs, and the social determinants of health as they relate to athletic wellness 1.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Training
Fellows receive dedicated training in musculoskeletal ultrasound during their first month, including didactics on specific anatomical regions and procedures that enhance their practical skills 1.
Sporting Event Coverage
The fellowship offers opportunities to provide medical coverage at sporting events, allowing fellows to apply their skills in real-world settings, including work as team physicians for local high schools, college athletics, and community sports events. This component reinforces their ability to manage acute injuries and advocate for athlete safety 1.
Visa Support
The Sports Medicine Fellowship Program at AltaMed supports international applicants throughout the visa sponsorship process. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas depending on the applicant's needs and qualifications.
Competitiveness
The fellowship is competitive and aims to attract qualified candidates. It is generally friendly to both DOs and Independent Medical Graduates (IMGs), affirming an inclusive approach to diverse educational backgrounds.
Special Application Requirements
Potential candidates must adhere to the application guidelines, which may include considerations about the year of graduation and the acceptance of up to one failed STEP exam, ensuring a fair evaluation process for all applicants.
Website
Director
Daniel Diaz, DOProgram Director, Sports Medicine Appointed Since July 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Los Angeles, CA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Los Angeles, CA
- Crime rate and safety: Los Angeles has a moderate crime rate with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. It's recommended to research and choose a safe area to live in.
- Fun activities: Los Angeles is known for its diverse entertainment options, such as Hollywood attractions, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Climate: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It is generally sunny throughout the year.
- Races and population: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population representing various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Los Angeles is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Los Angeles is relatively high compared to other cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
- Proximity to bigger cities: Nearby bigger cities include San Diego (about 2-3 hours drive) and San Francisco (about 6-7 hours drive), offering additional urban experiences.
- Pros: Exciting cultural opportunities, diverse culinary experiences, access to beautiful beaches, great weather, and potential networking opportunities in the entertainment industry.
- Cons: High cost of living, traffic congestion, air pollution, and housing affordability challenges.
Interview Questions
