Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Rochester) Program

The PM&R Sports Medicine Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Rochester, Minnesota, is a one-year accredited program focusing on non-operative sports medicine. This fellowship specifically addresses the primary care of patients who experience sports, fitness, or recreational activity-related injuries that hinder their engagement in physical activities. As part of the training, fellows spend a significant amount of time in the Sports Medicine Center while regularly rotating through Musculoskeletal and Regenerative Medicine Clinics

Curriculum Overview

The educational curriculum for the PM&R Sports Medicine Fellowship includes structured learning objectives, journal clubs, weekly educational conferences, and didactic sessions, which focus on a variety of sport-related topics. Formal training in diagnostic and interventional musculoskeletal ultrasound is also part of the curriculum

Fellows engage in reading assignments, hands-on instructions, and teachings at the Mayo Clinic Clinical Anatomy Lab. Clinical training emphasizes evaluating and managing sports-related injuries and musculoskeletal issues that impact competitive performance and fitness levels, incorporating additional medical aspects such as exercise physiology and endocrinology. Clinical interactions occur Monday through Friday, during operational hours from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Fellows will have access to state-of-the-art resources, including the Mayo Medical Libraries with over 4,000 electronic journals for research purposes. Additionally, there is a robust emphasis on sports-related research throughout the fellowship, allowing participants to propose and conduct individual research projects supported by dedicated time and resources

Rotations and Coverage

Mandatory rotations in the fellowship encompass various fields: Pediatric orthopedic sports medicine, adult orthopedic sports medicine, vascular medicine, pulmonology, and more. Elective rotations can be tailored across a range of specializations, enhancing the learning experience. Participation in local sporting events for team coverage is also an integral part of the fellowship, enhancing real-world application of training

The fellowship also allows up to one half-day per week in the PM&R Musculoskeletal Clinic, along with clinical learning experiences involving physical therapy and athletic training staff

Research Opportunities

Participation in research is heavily encouraged during the fellowship, with availability of training courses in clinical and translational science, along with opportunities for manuscript writing workshops. Didactic training also involves organizing and presenting in journal clubs to discuss current sports medicine literature and research

Quality of Life and Support

Mayo Clinic emphasizes holistic training, and fellows receive support aimed at maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Access to extensive physical and mental wellness resources is a key component of the fellowship experience

Application Process and Requirements

This fellowship admits one position on a competitive basis each year. Interested candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation and passed all three USMLE or COMLEX exams. The application, along with a supporting letter from the residency program director, must be submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by August 15 preceding the start date (which is July 1 each year). Appointments are made through the Primary Care Sports Medicine Match and invite selected candidates for interviews conducted from September to November

Additionally, the program welcomes International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and provides H-1B visas for fellows as needed. However, candidates must ensure they meet all specified eligibility criteria to enhance their competitiveness for fellowship positions

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The selection process for this fellowship is notably competitive. Applicants are advised to maintain a strong academic record and submit a comprehensive application package demonstrating their qualifications. It is recommended for candidates to have successfully passed all USMLE steps or COMLEX equivalents within set timelines as part of the application criteria. The program encourages applications from both U.S. and international graduates, fostering a diverse learning environment

Lastly, continued education and professional development are foundational elements of the fellowship experience, ensuring fellows are well-prepared for future careers in academic or private practice settings focused on sports medicine