Eisenhower Medical Center Program

The Sports Medicine Fellowship at Eisenhower Health is a one-year program, designed to provide advanced training to residency-trained physicians interested in specializing in the field of sports medicine. The fellowship supports two positions annually and offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines clinical experience with structured educational opportunities.

Application Process

The application process for the fellowship is conducted through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), utilizing the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) for submissions. The program director and staff scrutinize applicants based on qualifications and experiences before extending interview invitations. To complete an application, candidates must submit a Curriculum Vitae, a personal statement not exceeding 550 words, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and proof of citizenship, which can include a U.S. Passport, Green Card, or J-1 Visa. It is important to note that the deadline for applications is September 30, and no visa sponsorship is available 1.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be board certified or eligible and should be completing a three-year clinical training program in an accredited Residency Program. To participate in the fellowship, an active California medical license or eligibility for licensure is required. Candidates must secure their California licenses within 90 days of the fellowship commencement. Applications that are incomplete or lack necessary documents will not be considered 4.

Clinical Experience

The fellowship program equips fellows with a diverse clinical experience involving a wide array of athletes and active individuals across various age groups and skill levels. Fellows will be engaged in:

• Pre-participation examinations (PPE)
• Injury prevention and management
• Exercise prescription
• Treatment of acute and chronic illnesses and injuries
• Rehabilitation planning

Fellows will also participate in team coverage including high school sports, collegiate events, and professional tournaments such as the PGA and LPGA events, thereby gaining extensive hands-on experience in various sports contexts 1.

Didactic Opportunities

Alongside clinical training, fellows participate in structured educational meetings hosted by the UC San Diego Sports Medicine Consortium. This includes lectures, anatomy labs, and musculoskeletal ultrasound training. Monthly journal clubs and dedicated research time are integral parts of the educational structure as well. Fellows are expected to contribute to teaching medical students and residents, along with presenting at national sports medicine conferences, enhancing both their learning and teaching skills 2.

Faculty and Mentorship

The program features a diverse group of experienced faculty strong in various specialties, including family medicine and orthopedic surgery. Faculty members are deeply engaged in the fellowship and provide extensive mentorship, ensuring that fellows gain not just clinical skills, but also insights into academic and professional development in sports medicine 3.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This fellowship stands out due to its integration with local high schools and colleges, creating an exceptional environment for fellows to engage in practical applications of their training. The program is deeply rooted in community involvement, with fellows gaining experience in a range of activities from conducting physical exams to providing medical coverage for significant athletic events. The location also allows fellows to enjoy Southern California's lifestyle while engaging with a diverse patient population 2.

Competitive Landscape

The fellowship is noted for its highly competitive selection process. While the program maintains a rigorous standard for applicants, it is also known to be favorable towards international medical graduates and osteopathic candidates, which can enhance diversity within the fellowship. Applicants are encouraged to showcase their unique experiences and commitment to sports medicine during the application process 4.