Residency Advisor

Program Overview

The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso offers a comprehensive Sports Medicine Fellowship within its Family Medicine residency program. This fellowship is designed to cultivate a deep understanding and proficiency in sports medicine, specifically tailored to the needs of athletes. The primary goal of the program is to enrich fellows through diverse educational experiences in various sports medicine environments, equipping them with the skills necessary for the evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of sport-related injuries and illnesses 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is structured around longitudinal rotations that last three months, providing fellows with hands-on experience within the Texas Tech system as well as community collaborations. These rotations encompass multiple disciplines, including orthopaedic surgery, radiology, physical therapy, hand surgery, podiatry, and pediatric orthopaedics, ensuring that participants receive a well-rounded education in sports medicine 4.

One distinctive feature of this fellowship is the Ski Medicine Rotation, where fellows spend two weeks in Park City, Utah. During this rotation, fellows gain experience in managing acute winter sports-related injuries and addressing environmental challenges associated with skiing 4.

Didactics and Conferences

Fellows engage in weekly didactics on Thursday mornings, focusing on topics that align with the CAQ examination outline. Additionally, quarterly journal clubs enhance collaborative learning, and fellows are expected to present educational lectures to Family Medicine residents. Participation in conferences, specifically the AMSSM Annual Conference, is also a required component, which includes the preparation of at least one case abstract 4.

Athletic Coverage Experience

A unique component of the fellowship involves athletic coverage, where fellows serve as team physicians for various athletes from high schools to NCAA Division 1 and professional levels. This real-time experience is critical in developing skills necessary for on-site and mass participation event management. Fellows also learn about race medical planning through involvement with race medical directors 2.

Geographical and Cultural Context

The fellowship is based in El Paso, Texas, a vibrant city located at the intersection of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico. This cultural confluence presents a unique environment for fellows to understand the diverse population and specific health needs of athletes in this region 5.

Salary and Benefits

As for financial compensation, fellows receive a salary of $65,138.66 for the 2024-2025 year, with monthly distributions of $5,428.22. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, along with malpractice coverage, 20 days of paid vacation, a CME allowance, and a lab coat with laundry service provisions 7.

Application Process

Applications for the fellowship must be submitted by October 1 of the application year. Candidates should be residents in good standing or graduates of an ACGME-accredited residency in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics. Required application materials include a personal statement, three letters of reference (one from the residency program director), transcripts from medical school, and USMLE scores. For international medical graduates, ECFMG certification is also necessary 6.

The program is known to be competitive, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates, reflecting a commitment to fostering a diverse fellowship community 6.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants, including H-1B and J-1 visa types, facilitating entry for those who meet the criteria for participation in this fellowship.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

2 (1 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since July 2011

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

55hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

16hrs

First Year Salary:

$65,138

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

1.5X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

1

Location

El Paso, TX

Population
865,657
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
33

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in El Paso, TX

  • Crime Rate and Safety: El Paso is generally considered a safe city with a lower crime rate compared to other cities in Texas. It has a strong sense of community and a visible police presence.
  • Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the Franklin Mountains State Park. The city also hosts cultural events, festivals, and has a vibrant food scene.
  • Climate: El Paso has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. It receives abundant sunshine throughout the year.
  • Races and Population: El Paso has a diverse population with a majority of Hispanic residents. It is a border city with a strong Mexican influence.
  • Education: The city is home to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and offers educational opportunities for residents of all ages.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in El Paso is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
  • Proximity to Larger Cities: El Paso is about a 4-hour drive from Albuquerque, NM, and a 6-hour drive from Phoenix, AZ. These cities offer additional cultural amenities and entertainment options.
  • Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse population, outdoor activities, and strong community spirit.
  • Cons: Hot summers, limited public transportation options, and being located in a desert region.

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