HCA Florida Healthcare/USF Morsani College of Medicine GME - Tampa South Program

The HCA Florida Healthcare/USF Morsani College of Medicine Graduate Medical Education (GME) program for Internal Medicine at HCA Florida Blake Hospital in St. Petersburg is designed to provide a rigorous and comprehensive training experience for its residents. As an ACGME-accredited program, it focuses on producing highly competent internal medicine physicians, prepared for both primary care and subspecialty training.

Set in a 383-bed tertiary hospital, HCA Florida Blake Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, serving as a Level II Trauma Center, Comprehensive Stroke Center, and Burn Center. The program emphasizes quality patient care and medical education in a supportive environment, benefitting from the hospital's affiliation with the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine. This affiliation ensures a blend of academic excellence and community-based training that enhances the overall educational experience for residents 1.

Curriculum Overview

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at HCA Florida Blake Hospital offers a three-year categorical residency with 71 positions available. Residents engage in a unique curriculum structured around a 4+1 scheduling system which balances inpatient rotations with dedicated outpatient clinic time. This system promotes continuity of care as residents learn to manage patients in a variety of settings without interruptions from inpatient duties.

The curriculum features core components such as Morning Reports, Noon Conferences, and Board Review sessions, alongside monthly Journal Clubs and Morbidity and Mortality Conferences. The program aims to foster robust clinical skills, critical thinking, and teamwork, placing significant emphasis on the importance of scholarly activities and evidence-based practice 4.

Rotations and Training Sites

Most rotations take place at HCA Florida Blake Hospital, with residents gaining practical experience across diverse specialties. The program includes intensive care, cardiology, emergency medicine, and various surgical disciplines, offering a well-rounded exposure that’s vital for comprehensive medical training. Opportunities for rotations in outpatient settings allow residents to develop long-term relationships with patients, improving their diagnostic and management skills 5.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research initiatives and contribute to scholarly work throughout their training. The program supports both individual and collaborative research projects, aiming to instill a culture of inquiry within the residency experience. Faculty mentorship is highly emphasized, with senior staff providing guidance on research methodologies and publication processes, ensuring residents can achieve academic success alongside their clinical training 4.

Salary and Benefits

The HCA Florida Blake Hospital offers competitive salaries and an array of benefits designed to support the well-being of its residents. These include medical, dental, and disability insurance options, along with professional liability coverage. Additional perks encompass a meal stipend, educational allowances, and resources for board preparation, ensuring that residents have the support necessary for both academic and personal success 6.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This program is recognized for its collaborative culture, where faculty and residents work closely to provide high-quality patient care and education. The commitment to mentorship guides residents in their professional development, fostering a supportive community that values diversity and inclusion. This environment is crucial in developing well-rounded healthcare professionals who can adapt to various patient needs and challenges 4.

Visa Support and Application Details

The HCA Florida Healthcare/USF Morsani College of Medicine GME program offers visa sponsorships, including J-1 and H-1B visa types, accommodating international medical graduates. The program is known to be friendly towards both D.O. and I.M.G candidates, enhancing its diversity and fostering a global healthcare perspective within the residency. Specific application requirements include having no more than one failed attempt on the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Steps 2.

Competitiveness and Applicant Considerations

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at HCA Florida Blake Hospital is competitive in nature, attracting a diverse pool of applicants who demonstrate strong academic backgrounds, clinical acumen, and a commitment to patient-centered care. The program's commitment to individualized training allows residents to focus on their career goals, whether they pursue general internal medicine or seek fellowship opportunities in subspecialties like Cardiology or Infectious Disease 5.