Palmetto General Hospital Program

Program Overview

The Infectious Disease Fellowship Program at Palmetto General Hospital offers an extensive two-year fellowship designed to provide fellows with a comprehensive training experience in the field of infectious diseases. The program is affiliated with Nova Southeastern University and is based in Hialeah, Florida.

The program provides clinical experience in a range of areas, including, but not limited to, infections related to marrow and solid organ transplants, tropical medicine, pediatrics, HIV management, and emerging pathogens.

Curriculum and Training

The fellowship includes a strong didactic component, highlighted by 28 hours of lectures each month covering various topics pertinent to infectious diseases. This structure ensures that fellows are kept up-to-date with current practices and research in the field.

Through continuity clinics, fellows gain vital hands-on experience managing patients with different infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases, viral infections (both HIV and non-HIV), and fungal infections. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding hospital epidemiology and offers additional training in STD management through didactic lectures.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research activities to contribute to the field of infectious diseases. However, this program does not currently offer a dedicated training grant (T32), which may be of interest to prospective fellows seeking robust research funding.

Training Sites and Facilities

Training is conducted primarily at Palmetto General Hospital, which features modern facilities and access to a diverse patient population. This diversity allows fellows to encounter a wide range of infectious disease presentations, providing valuable clinical exposure.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

The program accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Interested candidates typically apply between July and January for the following academic year. Applications are limited to citizens or residents of the USA, which is a key eligibility requirement.

Additionally, there are no specified limits on failed STEP exams, but candidates should be mindful that the fellowship is competitive, and strong academic performance is expected.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

Palmetto General Hospital supports visa applications; however, specific visa types acceptable for the program are not clearly stated. Applicants should confirm the acceptability of relevant visa options during the application process.

Competitively, this fellowship program is designed to accommodate graduates from various medical backgrounds, including DO candidates. The program is focused on building a diverse cohort of fellows, thereby fostering an inclusive training environment.

Fellowship Duration and Structure

The fellowship is structured over two years, during which fellows will receive focused training aimed at becoming competent practitioners in the field of infectious diseases.