Florida State University College of Medicine Program

The Florida State University College of Medicine offers a unique Emergency Medicine Residency Program at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, designed to cultivate the next generation of emergency medicine leaders. The program emphasizes rigorous clinical training, comprehensive education, and a supportive environment, all set against the serene backdrop of Sarasota, Florida.

Application Requirements

The program accepts applications exclusively through ERAS. Applicants must submit a CV, personal statement, photograph, Medical School Performance Evaluation (MSPE) or Dean's letter, three letters of recommendation (with Emergency Medicine residency SLOEs being strongly preferred), medical school transcripts, and USMLE or COMLEX scores. It is mandatory that applicants pass Level 1 and 2 exams by the NRMP Rank Order Deadline.

Graduates from LCME-accredited medical schools, as well as applicants from osteopathic schools accredited by the AOA, are eligible to apply. Those who graduated from foreign medical schools within the last three years must possess a valid ECFMG certificate before application submission. Fluency in English is also required. Notably, the program will accept J1 VISA applicants but does not sponsor H-1 or other visas.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum spans three years and is structured around high-volume emergency medicine experiences. Residents will begin with a month-long orientation that fosters teamwork and acclimatisation. During the course of training, residents engage in direct patient care, managing high-acuity conditions from day one.

The program includes diverse rotations, comprising:

• PGY1: Orientation, OB/GYN, MICU, POCUS/Anesthesia, Trauma, Pediatric EM, Selective, Emergency Medicine
• PGY2: Administration/POCUS, PICU, MICU, Selective, Pediatric EM, EMS, Emergency Medicine
• PGY3: SICU, Research/Toxicology, Selective, Emergency Medicine

Notably, residents will not work overnight prior to important educational conferences that occur every Wednesday morning. This includes didactics, case presentations, hands-on workshops, and journal clubs. To enhance their clinical education, residents participate in simulation training and must complete a Quality Improvement project during their residency, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of emergency medicine practice.

Training Sites

The primary training site is the Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (SMH), a 900-bed facility recognized as a Level 2 trauma and comprehensive stroke center. Furthermore, residents also gain experience at the free-standing emergency department in North Port, Florida, and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for pediatric intensive care rotations. This provides a comprehensive exposure to both adult and pediatric patient care in a variety of settings.

Resident Benefits

FSU-COM offers a competitive compensation package for its residents, with salaries increasing from $63,162 for PGY1 to $68,394 for PGY3. In addition, a $5,000 relocation/signing payment is provided, alongside a $10,000 annual cost of living allowance. Insurance benefits encompass major medical, dental, vision, disability, and malpractice insurance.

Residents are also allocated a $2,500 annual educational allowance for conference expenditures and educational materials, along with five CME days. Other benefits include free meals at the hospital, assistance with registration for Step 3, and access to wellness resources designed to support residents’ overall health.

Competitiveness and Applicant Profile

The program aims to be DO and IMG friendly, welcoming a diverse array of candidates from various medical backgrounds. It is considered highly competitive due to its robust training environment and the high acuity of cases managed, preparing graduates for dynamic careers in emergency medicine.

Research Opportunities and Academic Environment

FSU-COM prioritizes research, encouraging residents to engage in scholarly activities throughout their training. The academic environment is enhanced by the integration with faculty who are active practitioners and educators, ensuring that residents receive mentorship in both clinical and research settings.

Wellness and Support

The program places a strong emphasis on resident wellness, fostering an environment where residents can thrive both personally and professionally. Initiatives include wellness lectures, organized social events, and accessible mental health services, recognizing the importance of personal wellbeing amidst a demanding training regimen.

Local Area

Sarasota offers an attractive living environment for residents, featuring beautiful beaches such as Siesta Key, cultural activities, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. This vibrant community supports a balanced lifestyle, making it an ideal setting for both personal and professional growth.