American Sports Medicine Institute (St Vincent's) Program
Location:
Birmingham, ALSpecialty:
Orthopaedic sports medicineACGME Code:
2680131026The Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship program administered by ASMI is located at St. Vincent’s Birmingham. The Fellowship provides an immersive educational experience facilitated by rotating through different services led by experienced faculty. Fellows rotate under Program Director Dr. Jeff Dugas and faculty members Dr. Lyle Cain and Dr. Benton Emblom, thereby gaining exposure to diverse treatment philosophies and surgical techniques 1.
The educational framework of the Fellowship is structured around direct collaboration between the Fellows and faculty, involving them in all aspects of patient care. Fellows dedicate approximately 80 percent of their time in hands-on clinical settings, operating rooms, and rehabilitation facilities 1. They serve as surgical first assistants, participating actively in both pre-operative evaluations and post-operative care, which includes counseling the injured athletes and assisting in surgical procedures.
Clinical Research and Projects
Fellows are encouraged to engage in clinical research, working closely with Matt Ithurburn, PhD, and other ASMI clinical research staff. Every Fellow must complete at least one research project and submit a publishable manuscript as a capstone requirement for the program 1. This emphasis on research ensures that Fellows are well-prepared to contribute to the academic aspects of sports medicine.
Rotations and Responsibilities
Each Fellow is assigned to work with one college and one high school athletic team, providing routine medical care for athletes. Their responsibilities also include conducting pre-participation physicals and attending various educational meetings such as weekly Sports Medicine Conferences and monthly Journal Clubs, which enhance their knowledge and clinical expertise in sports medicine 1. The program frequently invites notable surgeons from around the globe to give lectures, allowing Fellows to broaden their understanding of treatment practices.
Educational Funding and Support
Funding is available for Fellows to attend significant orthopaedic meetings, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM). This not only aids in professional development but also helps Fellows immerse in contemporary sports medicine practices 1.
Rehabilitation Protocols
Fellows receive extensive training in state-of-the-art rehabilitation protocols, with guidance from renowned physical therapist Kevin Wilk, DPT. This aspect of training includes post-operative assessments being conducted jointly by physical therapists and physicians, fostering a collaborative approach to patient recovery 1.
Application Requirements and Competitiveness
The fellowship operates under the AANA/AOSSM Sports Medicine Match, meaning that all applicants must be board-eligible physicians, eligible for an Alabama medical license, and graduates of either an ACGME or COA accredited orthopaedic residency program in the USA or Canada. Unfortunately, applications from Foreign Medical Graduates cannot be accepted 1. Due to the prestigious nature of the program and its rigorous training, it is regarded as highly competitive; hence, potential candidates are encouraged to ensure they meet all criteria.
Visa Sponsorship
The program supports J-1 visas, which are essential for international fellows who need to complete their training in the United States. However, the fellowship does not accept applications from international medical graduates due to specific eligibility requirements 1.
Goals of the Fellowship
The primary goals of the Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship include offering extensive inpatient and outpatient experiences over the course of a year, enhancing medical knowledge and surgical skills relevant to sports injuries, and nurturing the research skills necessary for academic contributions in the field 1. This dedication to comprehensive training equips fellows with the competencies needed to excel in their future practices.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
65hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$45,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Birmingham, AL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Birmingham, AL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Birmingham has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, but certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's advisable to research specific areas before choosing a residence.
- Fun Activities: The city offers a variety of cultural and outdoor activities, including museums, parks, restaurants, and live music venues.
- Climate: Birmingham has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity and occasional storms.
- Races and Population: Birmingham is a diverse city with a mix of races, ethnicities, and cultures. The population is around 200,000 people.
- Education: Birmingham is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for further education and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Birmingham is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Birmingham is within driving distance of major cities like Atlanta, Georgia (about 2.5 hours away), and Nashville, Tennessee (around 3 hours away).
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse culture, proximity to other cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in some areas, hot and humid summers.
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