Texas Institute for Graduate Medical Education and Research (TIGMER) Program

The TIGMER Sports Medicine Fellowship Program offers an extensive and enriching experience for trainees interested in pursuing a career in primary care sports medicine. Accredited by the ACGME since 2019, the program has built on a legacy of over 25 years of training sports medicine fellows, producing over 40 experienced sports medicine physicians.

Training Experience

The program emphasizes hands-on experience. Fellows engage in real-world sports medicine scenarios throughout the year, working with high school, collegiate, and professional teams, including affiliations with the San Antonio Spurs and St. Mary's University, among others. This direct involvement equips fellows with the skills necessary to manage sports-related injuries effectively and efficiently under the mentorship of seasoned team physicians. Fellow participation extends to a variety of competitive events, enhancing their practical competency in a dynamic sports environment 1.

Curriculum Overview

Fellows in the program benefit from a well-rounded curriculum that focuses on both clinical and practical aspects of sports medicine. The training includes:

• Daily patient evaluations and management of a wide array of sports injuries at the Texas Center for Athletes.
• A continuity clinic where fellows dedicate half a day each week to a specific specialty.
• Rotational experience in related disciplines such as orthopedic surgery, musculoskeletal radiology, pain management, and physical therapy.
• Training in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound, utilizing devices like the SonoSite M-Turbo and the GE Vscan.
• Hands-on experience as team physicians for a high school and university team, providing sideline coverage for sports like football, basketball, and soccer 4.

Additional Opportunities

Cultural and community engagement is also part of the curriculum. Fellows may participate in local mass events, such as the San Antonio Rock n’ Roll Marathon and the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, providing medical care in diverse situations 4.

Application Process

The program selects two applicants annually for its one-year fellowship. The application requirements include:

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency; unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available currently.
• A completed application through ERAS, which encompasses a Curriculum Vitae, a personal statement, a Dean's letter, official medical school transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
• For international medical graduates, valid ECFMG certification and proof of visa status or U.S. citizenship are required 2.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty comprises a diverse group of specialists dedicated to advanced sports medicine education. The leadership includes experienced physicians in primary care sports medicine and experienced orthopedic surgeons who are committed to providing comprehensive training and mentorship. This relationship fosters an environment where fellows can grow professionally as they refine their skills in sports medicine 5.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The TIGMER Sports Medicine Fellowship Program does not currently sponsor visas. As a result, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents to be eligible for the program. Given the rigorous selection process and the prestigious nature of the training offered, the fellowship is recognized as competitive, attracting a diverse range of candidates from various backgrounds and training origins, including U.S. and international medical graduates 2.

Special Requirements

All applicants must adhere to specific application requirements, such as providing COMLEX or USMLE scores and ensuring that there are no maximum failures noted on licensing examinations, ensuring a standard of academic achievement that aligns with the program's expectations 2.