Ohio State University Hospital Program

The Sports Medicine Fellowship at Ohio State University, housed within the College of Medicine, is a prestigious program designed to train physicians in the specialized field of sports medicine. This one-year fellowship program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and is sponsored by the Department of Family and Community Medicine at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. The program combines advanced clinical education and hands-on experience in a dynamic environment, providing an unparalleled opportunity for fellows to develop comprehensive skills necessary for managing athletes and active individuals.

One of the hallmarks of this fellowship is its outstanding facilities. The Jameson Crane Sports Medicine Institute is the largest and most comprehensive dedicated sports medicine facility in the United States. This state-of-the-art institute provides fellows with access to exceptional resources and learning environments conducive to professional growth and development. Other training sites include outpatient care facilities in Gahanna, Lewis Center, and Dublin, which further enhance the fellows' exposure to diverse clinical settings (1, 4).

Curriculum Overview

The program features a curriculum that integrates six longitudinal block rotations across various specialties. These rotations encompass primary care, sports medicine, orthopedics, pediatric sports medicine, radiology, sports ultrasound, and osteopathic manipulation therapy (OMT). This structured approach allows fellows to obtain both the depth and breadth of experience necessary to excel in sports medicine practices (1, 3).

Fellows will engage directly with over 900 Division I NCAA athletes participating in 36 varsity sports teams at Ohio State, along with athletes at Capital University and several local high schools. This hands-on experience in both training room settings and competitive environments cultivates clinical acumen through real-time patient care and injury management (1, 2).

Research and Scholarly Activities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, as fellows are expected to participate in scholarly activities, including presenting at national conferences and publishing research findings. Academic endeavors are encouraged through local workshops, journal clubs, and mentoring opportunities from faculty. Each fellow is required to submit a case for presentation at a national meeting, and work towards a publishable quality research project (1, 3).

Training and Conferences

In addition to the clinical rotations and research obligations, fellows participate in regular teaching conferences, journal clubs, and national meetings to further enhance their knowledge base. This multifaceted educational framework ensures a robust learning experience focused on current evidence-based practices in sports medicine. Attendance at symposiums hosted for various topics such as endurance medicine is also expected. These conferences not only provide educational value but also allow fellows to network with leading professionals in the field (3, 4).

Application and Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the Sports Medicine Fellowship at Ohio State University, candidates must be U.S. citizens and complete an accredited residency program in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, emergency medicine, or physical medicine and rehabilitation. Applications are accepted from June 1 to September 15 through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and the interview process takes place in October and November. Candidates should note that participation in the match program is required (2, 5).

Competitive Environment and Support

The fellowship is competitive, reflecting the program’s strong reputation and exemplary training opportunities. The fellowship is particularly welcoming to DO and IMG applicants, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and perspectives they bring. Furthermore, the program provides visa sponsorship support for international candidates, allowing for a diverse cohort in training.

Stipend and Benefits

Fellows enjoy a competitive stipend that aligns with institutional guidelines, currently set at $73,049 for postgraduate year 4. Additional comprehensive benefits include professional liability insurance, medical health plans, paid vacation, and sick leave, as well as support for professional attire such as lab coats (5, 6).

Conclusion

The Sports Medicine Fellowship at Ohio State University provides an exceptional opportunity for fellows to develop expert skills in sports medicine through a combination of rigorous clinical training, comprehensive educational activities, and research involvement. This fellowship stands out not just in its facilities and curriculum, but also in its commitment to foster the next generation of leaders in the field of sports medicine.