Evara Health Program

The Family Medicine Residency Program at the Nova Southeastern University’s Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine is a distinct training initiative anchored at Evara Health, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Pinellas County, Florida. This program is designed for the rigorous education and training of family medicine board-eligible physicians who are well-equipped to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to diverse populations, particularly those in underserved communities.

This three-year residency program integrates comprehensive clinical training across both outpatient and inpatient settings. Residents are immersed in an environment that emphasizes active learning methodologies and excellent didactic training, covering the entire spectrum of family medicine. Through collaboration with Evara Health, which has been a critical provider of affordable primary care for over 40 years, the residency focuses on addressing healthcare inequalities faced by low-income patients, a significant portion of whom live below the poverty line 3.

Curriculum Structure

The program's curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover all essential aspects of family medicine, combining practical clinical exposure with a strong educational component. Residents will engage in weekly academic half-days that include a mix of lectures, case conferences, journal clubs, and workshops. This structured format, along with wellness activities and grand rounds, ensures a thorough understanding of evidence-based, patient-centered care 3.

Clinical Training

Notably, the residency includes a requirement to complete a clinical rotation in a rural or underserved community, which not only enhances the residents' competencies but also solidifies their commitment to serving diverse populations 2. Residents will experience hands-on training in various clinical settings, including Evara Health’s own facilities, Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital Center, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Morton Plant Hospital, and Bay Pines VA Hospital 3.

Research and Quality Improvement

Residents are encouraged to take part in quality improvement projects and complete an academic project during their training. This initiative is vital for enhancing practical skills along with the academic rigor expected in the medical field 3. Frequent evaluations are introduced to provide constructive feedback on residents’ performance relative to ACGME family medicine milestones and ABFM Core Outcomes, strengthening their preparation for board certification 3.

Diversity and Community Engagement

The program reflects the demographics of the community it serves, which is the second smallest county in Florida by land area but holds the title for being the most densely populated. This commitment to diversity ensures that residents and faculty alike are well-prepared to address the needs of various cultural and ethnic groups 3. Residents will have ample opportunities to develop skills and practices that go beyond traditional medical education, fostering a deep understanding of the social determinants of health.

Visa Support

The Family Medicine Residency Program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to train in the United States. The program typically supports J-1 and H-1B visa types, enabling qualified candidates to apply and join the residency program as they pursue their training in family medicine.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The NSU Family Medicine Residency Program maintains a competitive application process, welcoming candidates from the D.O., M.D., and international medical graduate communities. Application considerations include the year of graduation and prior experience in clinical settings, with candidates highly encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to serving underserved populations. The program differentiates itself by being friendly to D.O. and IMG applicants while providing an enriching educational experience.