St. Agnes Medical Center (Fresno) Program

The Sports Medicine Fellowship at Saint Agnes Medical Center in Fresno, California, is designed to cultivate future leaders in the field of sports medicine. This community-based program aims to serve a diverse and underserved population, ensuring that fellows are equipped to provide high-quality sports medicine care tailored to the needs of the communities they serve. The fellowship recently welcomed its inaugural fellow in July 2023, followed by the start of its second fellow in July 2024.

The fellowship spans one year and integrates clinical rotations across multiple specialties including sports medicine, orthopedics, pain management, and radiology. Through a comprehensive curriculum, fellows can gain extensive exposure to various aspects of sports medicine practice, further enhancing their clinical skills and knowledge

Curriculum Overview

The Sports Medicine Fellowship follows a structured curriculum consisting of rotations based on a four-week, 13-block schedule. Key rotations include:

• Musculoskeletal Radiology – 1 block
• Orthopaedic Trauma – 1 block
• Orthopaedics – 2 blocks
• Pain Management – 1 block
• Podiatry – 1 block
• Sports Medicine – 4 blocks

Additionally, fellow involvement extends to event coverage, where fellows serve as team physicians for local school districts and participate in high-profile events like the USA Wrestling Championships and Fresno Marathon. This hands-on experience with athletic events allows fellows to develop practical skills in sports medicine care and team management 4.

Research and Elective Opportunities

The program places significant emphasis on research, allowing fellows to engage in investigative projects that contribute to the advancement of sports medicine and related fields. Elective rotations provide flexibility in tailored learning experiences, enabling fellows to develop specific interests aligned with their career aspirations 5.

Compensation and Benefits

Fellows at Saint Agnes Medical Center receive a competitive annual gross salary starting at $70,543, with incremental increases during the fellowship years. Fellows also benefit from comprehensive healthcare coverage beginning on their first day of employment, which includes medical insurance, flexible spending accounts, life and disability insurance, and retirement plans.

Furthermore, fellows are eligible for a $1,500 education reimbursement and receive an annual meal stipend of $1,600. The program allows for three weeks (15 days) of paid vacation each academic year, providing fellows an opportunity to recharge and focus on personal well-being. In addition to standard leave policies, fellowships also permit up to six weeks of medical, parental, and caregiver leave with full pay, demonstrating the program's commitment to supporting the well-being of its fellows 2.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The Sports Medicine Fellowship provides visa support for international medical graduates, facilitating visa sponsorship applications to ensure a seamless onboarding process. The program actively encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and welcomes international graduates offering a supportive training environment.

In terms of application competitiveness, the fellowship is designed to be accessible, with a focus on accepting highly motivated candidates, including DOs and IMGs. The program requires applicants to have completed a residency in family medicine, and does not specify restrictions regarding year of graduation; however, applicants must submit their materials through ERAS 3.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Located in the vibrant city of Fresno, this fellowship benefits from a relatively low cost of living while offering the advantages of a culturally rich environment where residents can experience a variety of culinary and social activities. The community's accessibility to three national parks and proximity to major California cities allows fellows to enjoy a balanced lifestyle with opportunities for recreation and leisure 1.

As part of a faith-based institution, the fellowship fosters a holistic approach to patient care, appreciating the importance of the emotional and spiritual dimensions of healing. The supportive atmosphere encourages fellow development in a variety of clinical, interpersonal, and leadership skills necessary for effective patient care within diverse communities 6.