Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at Lubbock Program
Location:
Lubbock, TXSpecialty:
Geriatric medicine (Family medicine)ACGME Code:
1254813075The Geriatrics Fellowship Program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) in Lubbock is statutorily designed to prepare fellows for a richly interactive clinical and academic experience in the field of geriatric medicine. The program focuses on training medical students, residents, and allied health professionals through a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both clinical acumen and educational strategies.
The fellowship encompasses a full range of clinical activities, extending beyond just hospital settings. Fellows engage in outpatient/ambulatory care, long-term care facilities, assisted living settings, hospice care, and home visits, ensuring a multifaceted approach to geriatric patient management.
Facilities and Resources
TTUHSC-Lubbock features distinguished facilities, including the Mildred and Shirley L. Garrison Geriatric Education and Care Center, which is noted as the first on-site teaching nursing home established by a medical school in the United States. Additionally, the Texas Tech Physicians’ Pavilion serves as a modern outpatient facility dedicated to ambulatory care services, further enriching the educational experience of fellows.
Research Opportunities
Research within the program is bolstered by affiliations with the TTUHSC Garrison Institute on Aging and the F. Marie Hall Institute for Rural and Community Health. These institutes provide a platform for collaborative research initiatives, focusing on the aging population's health, a vital aspect of the program’s mission. The program acknowledges the significance of academic inquiry and invites fellows to engage in research that may translate into improvements in geriatric care.
Application Process
The application for the Geriatrics Fellowship is processed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive application package which includes a curriculum vitae (C.V.), a personal statement, three letters of reference, a Dean's letter, medical school transcripts, and USMLE/COMLEX scores. Although there are no specific minimum score criteria, it is mandated that applicants must pass each exam within their first two attempts, with the exception of the Clinical Skills (CS) portion of Step 2, which must be passed on the first attempt.
Candidates are required to be graduates of an accredited program in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics, which must be confirmed through ERAS. Additionally, all applicants must meet the licensing requirements set forth by the Texas Medical Board prior to acceptance, which includes being ECFMG certified for international medical graduates (IMGs).
Visa Sponsorship
The program offers sponsorship specifically for J-1 visas, catering to the needs of international fellows looking to specialize in geriatric medicine within the United States. It's imperative that IMGs ensure compliance with the regulations set forth by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) before applying.
Competitive Aspects
The Geriatrics Fellowship at TTUHSC is considered highly competitive, drawing applicants from a diverse range of medical schools across the country. The fellowship program is structured not only for U.S. graduates but also emphasizes being IMG-friendly, offering support and understanding of the unique challenges faced by international applicants.
Fellowship Benefits
Fellowship participants enjoy numerous benefits including an annual salary of approximately $70,283.84, comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance options inclusive of family coverage. Other perks include a $1,250 moving stipend upon entrance to the fellowship, 20 days of paid vacation, and provisions for continuing medical education (CME), enabling fellows to attend courses and workshops that advance their professional skills. Additionally, the program provides a name-embroidered lab coat, parking spaces for fellows, and ACLS re-certification tuition coverage.
Fellows are also encouraged to participate in an annual retreat to foster professional bonding and rejuvenation from the rigors of clinical duties.
Website
Director
John W Culberson, MD, MSProgram Director, Associate Professor of Family Medicine Appointed Since July 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$66,936First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Lubbock, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Lubbock, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Lubbock has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, but it is still considered a relatively safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Lubbock is known for its vibrant arts scene, live music venues, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy the Buddy Holly Center, wineries, museums, and parks.
- Climate: Lubbock experiences hot summers and mild winters. Expect warm temperatures during most of the year.
- Races and Population: Lubbock has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities.
- Education: Lubbock is home to Texas Tech University, providing educational and cultural opportunities to the community.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Lubbock is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Lubbock is approximately a 5-hour drive from Dallas, and a 6-hour drive from Houston. Both cities offer a wide range of amenities, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, vibrant arts and music scene, proximity to larger cities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate compared to national average.
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