Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine Program

The Emergency Medicine Residency Program at the Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine offers a comprehensive and innovative training experience for future emergency medicine specialists. The program is ACGME accredited, and its structured educational approach ensures that residents receive high-quality clinical training in a supportive environment.

Curriculum and Didactics

The curriculum is designed to produce highly competent emergency medicine physicians through a diverse array of learning experiences. Residents participate in:

• Small group case-based discussions
• Multi-disciplinary patient safety conferences
• Interactive sessions, such as "Ask the Specialist" lectures
• Monthly grand rounds with nationally regarded speakers
• Simulation training designed for practical skill development

Due to the importance placed on high-quality and interactive learning, there are dedicated conference days, including a day per month reserved for simulation training, which utilizes state-of-the-art facilities to enhance clinical skills.

Resident Rotations

The program consists of 12 blocks per year, which include rotations that are divided among various clinical settings and longitudinal assignments in ultrasound, quality improvement (QI), and emergency medical services (EMS). Residents gain exposure to:

• Adult Emergency Medicine and Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Trauma care at St. Mary's Level 1 Trauma Center
• Critical care experiences in ICU settings

Each rotation provides opportunities to manage acute patient care effectively, emphasizing hands-on procedures and comprehensive patient assessments. Training occurs at major affiliated hospitals, including Bethesda Hospital East, Delray Medical Center, and St. Mary's Medical Center.

Research Opportunities

The residency program fosters a culture of research, requiring each resident to complete a scholarly activity project that culminates in a manuscript suitable for peer-reviewed journals before graduation. Mentorship programs are in place to pair residents with faculty members who guide them throughout the research process, ensuring that all residents are actively engaged in academic medicine.

Unique Aspects

Florida Atlantic University’s program stands out due to its emphasis on wellness, critical thinking, and academic growth. Residents are encouraged to participate in wellness activities that help promote a balanced life outside of rigorous residency training. Additionally, the mentoring culture within the program ensures that residents feel supported by both peers and faculty.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

This residency program participates in the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and accepts six positions each year. Key application requirements include:

• USMLE or COMLEX Step 1 passing scores
• Three letters of recommendation, preferably including two Emergency Medicine specific letters
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (Dean's Letter)

While the program is competitive, it is considered friendly toward both DO candidates and international medical graduates (IMGs). Special attention is given to a holistic review of all applications, ensuring opportunities for diverse applicant backgrounds.

Visa Support

For international applicants, the program offers visa sponsorship, specifically for J-1 visas, enabling capable candidates from abroad to join the residency. The program is welcoming to those seeking to further their training in the United States.

Wellness and Support

Wellness is a critical component of the residency experience at FAU. A wide array of activities promotes resident well-being, including monthly events, faculty-resident mentorship, and recreational outings. This culture supports not just academic growth but personal development as well.

Salary and Benefits

Residents are compensated competitively, with annual salaries beginning at approximately $58,671 for PGY-1, increasing with subsequent years. Benefits include meal credits, educational stipends, and malpractice insurance coverage, which helps create an attractive and supportive residency environment.

Teaching Hospitals

The program benefits from its affiliation with three major hospitals, which offer a wide array of services and training opportunities:

• Bethesda Hospital East: 58,000 annual ED visits.
• Delray Medical Center: Designated Level I Trauma Center with numerous specialized services.
• St. Mary's Medical Center: A robust pediatric emergency program alongside comprehensive medical care.

This multi-hospital approach ensures diverse clinical exposures, enriching overall training and experience.