Florida State University College of Medicine (Tallahassee) Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at Florida State University College of Medicine in Tallahassee emphasizes a rich curriculum designed to enhance both the academic and practical skills essential for the comprehensive practice of internal medicine. With a missionaligned with the college's goal to produce compassionate and proficient physicians, the program prepares residents to address complex medical disorders across diverse patient populations.

Mission and Vision

The program aims to train skilled clinicians dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. This residency program seeks to develop physicians who will not only practice effectively but also contribute to advancements in medical education and research. Residents have opportunities to engage in scholarly activities that support their personal interests and promote career development.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive experience across both inpatient and outpatient settings. By completing rotations in various medical subspecialties such as Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, Pulmonology, and more, residents are thoroughly equipped to become competent practitioners. The curriculum spans three years with a unique 4+1 scheduling system, integrating four weeks of rotations followed by one week of dedicated clinic time, allowing residents to build continuity with their patients while also developing independent practice skills.

Rotations and Clinical Training

Residents participate in a wide range of rotations, including critical care, where they manage complex patient cases under the guidance of experienced faculty. Daily rounds are part of the experience, during which residents learn not only from the cases at hand but also from the interdisciplinary care team.1

Moreover, residents receive training in quality improvement (QI) and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), adding valuable diagnostic and procedural skills to their repertoire. The QI curriculum encourages residents to engage in community health initiatives and implement projects aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery outcomes.

Research and Scholarly Activities

The program promotes a strong emphasis on academic research, offering residents the opportunity to participate in clinical trials and publish findings. The partnership with TMH and the University of Florida facilitates access to resources and mentorship for those pursuing scholarly writing and grant applications. Past projects have included a variety of clinical studies and quality improvements aimed at bettering healthcare practices at the residency's primary training hospital, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH).2

Training Sites and Facilities

TMH serves as the primary training site, boasting a 772-bed capacity and the only Level II trauma center in the Big Bend region. This level of care allows residents exposure to a broad spectrum of patient cases, offering a comprehensive training environment that maximizes learning opportunities. The facilities include modernized rooms and advanced educational technologies, aimed at driving optimal training and patient care.

Resident Benefits and Wellness

Residents are offered competitive salaries and benefits, including access to wellness programs designed to promote mental and physical health. The wellness culture within the program provides resources for stress management and burnout prevention, emphasizing work-life balance and fostering a supportive community.3

Additionally, innovative social events bridge residency duties and personal time, promoting camaraderie and peer support.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. The residency is highly competitive, actively promoting opportunities for applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs. Successful applicants are those who are adaptable and have demonstrated a commitment to compassionate patient care. The program requires evidence of successful completion of USMLE Step 1, and Step 2 CK on the first attempt, and candidates must not have significant gaps or failures in their residency training. The program strongly favors applicants who have graduated from medical school within three years of application.4

The diversity of the program's residents aids in cultivating a collaborative environment that emphasizes mutual respect and shared learning.

Ultimately, the Florida State University College of Medicine Internal Medicine Residency is designed to produce physicians who are not only advocates for their patients but also innovators in the medical field, poised to make substantial contributions to the health of communities.