The UAB Medical Genetics Residency Training Program provides a comprehensive and rigorous framework intended for physicians focused on the diagnosis, management, treatment, and counseling of patients with genetic disorders. This residency is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and emphasizes both clinical training and research opportunities.
Curriculum Overview
The training program consists of 18 months of clinical rotations combined with six months dedicated to research. Residents will rotate through a variety of general and subspecialty clinics, covering the consultation service and receiving exposure to clinical laboratories, which enhances the participant's skills in genetic evaluations, testing, diagnosis, and management of genetic disorders. The rotations include intensive experience in prenatal genetics, cancer genetics, and clinical laboratory education in Molecular Genomics, Cytogenetics, and Biochemical Genetics, with all labs conveniently on-site for efficient training 1.
Clinical Rotations and Experiences
Residents encounter a broad spectrum of clinical conditions, from pediatric to adult cases, allowing them to gain vast clinical experience. Approximately 25% of patient encounters occur with adult patients, including genetic issues pertaining to cancer and metabolic conditions. The program utilizes a busy clinical service with high patient volume to ensure that residents become proficient in handling diverse cases 1.
Research Opportunities
Alongside clinical training, the program emphasizes research, granting up to six months of protected time for residents to engage fully in research projects. This component can cover either basic science bench projects or clinical research and, for those interested in research careers, there are options for additional training through NIH funding 1. The close partnership with the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology provides residents additional resources and collaborative opportunities, enhancing their research capabilities 1.
Unique Features of the Program
The UAB Medical Genetics Residency enjoys a number of unique features, making it stand out among its peers:
- High Volume of Cases: Residents work with a significant number of cases encompassing a variety of genetic disorders, optimizing experiential learning.
- On-site Laboratories: Access to clinical genetics labs is integrated into the residency, facilitating seamless training without external rotations.
- Peer Interaction: As one of the larger residencies, with up to seven residents at any time, this program fosters a supportive environment for peer learning and collaboration.
- Educator Role: Residents receive opportunities to teach and mentor undergraduates and fellows, helping to solidify their own knowledge and communication skills 1.
Training Tracks
The UAB Medical Genetics Residency Program allows for specialization through various training tracks. Besides the Medical Genetics pathway, there are combinations available with Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and an integrated Maternal-Fetal Medicine track. Each track is tailored to prepare residents for board eligibility in their chosen fields 1.
Application Process
Application to the residency program is conducted exclusively via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs) can apply, with IMGs required to provide ECFMG certification. The residency may sponsor visas, specifically F-1 and J-1, with possible consideration for an H-1B visa depending on individual circumstances. Notably, candidates are expected to have a passing score on USMLE Steps 1 and 2, with an emphasis on no specific cut-off, although competitive scores enhance the application 1. Further, there is a policy limiting the acceptability of previous graduation years, ensuring a fresh cohort with a recent educational background.
Support for International Medical Graduates
IMG applicants are welcomed but must meet certain conditions, including completion of necessary USMLE steps and obtaining an ECFMG certificate by a specified timeline to ensure eligibility for training positions. The program aims to accommodate IMGs by considering a breadth of relevant experience and academic performance 1.
Living and Training Environment
The program is located in Birmingham, Alabama, home to one of the largest children's hospitals in the United States, the Children's of Alabama, providing an advanced clinical training environment. Amenities include dedicated office space for residents, access to educational resources, and funding for attending national conferences, offering a full and well-rounded residency experience 1.
Website
Director
Akila Subramaniam, MD, MPHAssociate Professor, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Program Director Appointed Since April 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
28hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,238First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
14XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Birmingham, AL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Birmingham, AL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Birmingham has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, but certain neighborhoods are safer than others. It's advisable to research specific areas before choosing a residence.
- Fun Activities: The city offers a variety of cultural and outdoor activities, including museums, parks, restaurants, and live music venues.
- Climate: Birmingham has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity and occasional storms.
- Races and Population: Birmingham is a diverse city with a mix of races, ethnicities, and cultures. The population is around 200,000 people.
- Education: Birmingham is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for further education and cultural events.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Birmingham is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Birmingham is within driving distance of major cities like Atlanta, Georgia (about 2.5 hours away), and Nashville, Tennessee (around 3 hours away).
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse culture, proximity to other cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in some areas, hot and humid summers.
Interview Questions
