Texas A&M University School of Medicine Program

The Texas A&M University College of Medicine Program in Geriatric Medicine, located in Temple, Texas, is a comprehensive program dedicated to preparing medical professionals equipped to address the challenges and needs of the aging population.

Program Overview

The program emphasizes a holistic approach to geriatrics, combining clinical expertise with research initiatives aimed at improving health care delivery for older adults. The program prepares physicians to not only treat diseases but also to understand the wider context of aging in society, addressing both the medical and psychosocial aspects of care.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to provide a balanced mix of didactic learning and clinical experience. It includes lectures, seminars, and small group discussions that focus on geriatric assessment, management of chronic diseases, polypharmacy, and transitions of care. Furthermore, it incorporates hands-on training, allowing residents to practice their skills in real clinical settings while being supervised by expert faculty.

Residents engage in core rotations covering a range of pertinent topics, specifically tailored to geriatrics, including:

• Acute care settings
• Long-term care facilities
• Home-based health care
• Palliative care
• Healthy aging and preventive care

Training Sites

Training takes place at several affiliated sites. These include local hospitals and outpatient clinics specialized in geriatrics, which allow residents to gain exposure to a diverse patient population. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing residents to work alongside nurses, social workers, and other health professionals.

Research Opportunities

Research is a crucial component of the program, with opportunities for residents to engage in projects focusing on topics such as aging, dementia, chronic disease management, and healthcare policy. Faculty members are involved in ongoing clinical trials and community-based research efforts, providing residents with exposure to the latest advancements and findings in geriatric medicine.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This program stands out for its commitment to community engagement and advocacy for older adults. Residents have many opportunities to participate in outreach initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of older individuals in the community, such as screening events and health education workshops.

Additionally, the program emphasizes leadership development, preparing residents to advocate for changes in geriatric care at local and national levels. Leadership training is integrated into the curriculum, fostering skills necessary for effective communication, team collaboration, and health care management.

Visa Support

The program provides comprehensive support for international medical graduates seeking training in the U.S. It is capable of sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visa categories, ensuring that international residents receive the appropriate documentation to pursue their medical education and training.

Competitiveness

Admission to the program is competitive, reflecting the high standards and quality of education provided. The program is recognized as IMGs (International Medical Graduates)-friendly and accepts applications from graduates of osteopathic (DO) and allopathic (MD) programs. Prospective applicants should be aware of the academic criteria and should ideally have no more than one failed attempt on Step exams.

Application Requirements

Potential applicants are expected to have graduated from their medical school within a specific time frame and may need to provide proof of their commitment to geriatrics through prior experiences. The program considers not only academic performance but also the applicant's personal statement and letters of recommendation, which should reflect the candidate's interest and dedication to the field of geriatrics.