The San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium (SAUSHEC) Program in Emergency Medicine offers a four-year residency designed to meet the educational requirements for board certification in emergency medicine. This program is particularly notable for its unique focus on military medicine, equipping residents with the experience and skills needed to serve in diverse environments, whether on base or in deployed settings.
Program Structure
The residency comprises a combination of core clinical rotations, didactic training, and scholarly research opportunities. The curriculum is organized to progressively build competencies essential for practicing emergency medicine in military settings. The primary training locations include the Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) and the Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, both of which offer extensive resources and equipment necessary for comprehensive training in emergency medicine.
Curriculum
The residency curriculum includes required rotations in various specialties such as trauma, pediatrics, and critical care. Additionally, residents will perform rotations at affiliated civilian hospitals, receiving broader exposure to emergency care settings. Regular didactic sessions focus on topics such as advanced trauma life support, advanced cardiac life support, and other essential emergency protocols. The training is complemented by simulation exercises to prepare residents for real-world scenarios they may encounter.
Core Rotations
Emergency medicine residents spend significant time in the emergency department, providing direct patient care while also engaging in clinical rotations tailored to expand their specialties. Each year builds upon the previous one's experiences, ensuring that residents experience both the breadth and depth of emergency medical care.
Clinical Skills Development
Throughout the residency, there is a strong emphasis on developing both technical and non-technical skills. This includes not just clinical knowledge but also abilities in leadership, teamwork, and professional communication—all vital for success in emergency medicine and military operations.
Research Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities that contribute to the advancement of emergency medicine and military healthcare. This consists of conducting research projects that may lead to presentations at national conferences or publications in peer-reviewed journals. This focus not only enhances the educational experience but also contributes to the body of knowledge within military medicine.
Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, typically supporting J-1 visas specifically tailored for residency training. Competition for slots is significant, as the program strives to maintain a diverse cohort while accommodating both U.S. citizens and qualified international applicants.
Application Requirements and Competitiveness
To be eligible for the program, applicants must have graduated from an accredited medical school. The selection process is competitive; however, the program is generally considered to be friendly towards International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic graduates (DOs). Successful candidates typically have a strong academic record, excellent letters of recommendation, and demonstrated interest in emergency medicine. Additionally, applicants may be required to have no more than one failed attempt on the USMLE Step exams.
Training Sites
Training occurs primarily at BAMC, designated as the busiest military hospital in the Department of Defense and the only Level 1 trauma center in the region. The program's comprehensive training environment includes a busy emergency department and access to a variety of subspecialty consultations, providing an invaluable resource for residents.
Unique Aspects of the Program
SAUSHEC’s Emergency Medicine residency stands out not only for its military focus but also for its commitment to producing leaders in military medicine. The program integrates military-specific training, including courses in expeditionary medicine, preparing residents to handle unique challenges associated with military deployments.
Well-Being Support
The program places a strong emphasis on the well-being of its residents, providing various resources to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance throughout the demanding training period. Support from faculty and peers plays a critical role in creating a supportive environment conducive to both personal and professional growth.
Conclusion
Overall, the SAUSHEC Program in Emergency Medicine is designed to produce highly competent emergency medicine physicians prepared for both civilian and military practices. With a rich curriculum that prioritizes clinical excellence, research, and leadership development, graduates emerge from the program fully equipped to meet the complex healthcare challenges facing the U.S. military and beyond.
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Aaron Matlock, MD, MBAInterim Program Director Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
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2330 Stanley Rd, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234
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Living in JBSA Fort Sam Houston, TX
JBSA Fort Sam Houston is situated in San Antonio, Texas. Here is an overview of living in this location:
- Crime Rate and Safety: San Antonio has a moderate crime rate but is generally considered safe, especially within military bases like Fort Sam Houston.
- Fun Activities: San Antonio offers a range of attractions such as the River Walk, The Alamo, vibrant cultural events, and a variety of local restaurants and cafes.
- Climate: San Antonio has a hot semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it comfortable for outdoor activities throughout the year.
- Races and Population: San Antonio is known for its diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnic backgrounds, creating a rich cultural environment.
- Education: San Antonio is home to various educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and schools, providing opportunities for continuous learning.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Antonio is generally lower than many other major cities in the United States, making it a more affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Other Cities: San Antonio is located around 80 miles southwest of Austin, the capital of Texas. The drive from San Antonio to Austin takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Pros: Diverse population, rich cultural experiences, lower cost of living compared to other major cities.
Cons: Traffic congestion in certain areas, hot summers, moderate crime rate in some parts of the city.