Residency Advisor

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA/HCA FLORIDA HEALTHCARE (FORT WALTON BEACH) PROGRAM

Location:

Ft Walton Bch, FL

Specialty:

Internal medicine

ACGME Code:

1401100012
YOG 5J1

The University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare (Fort Walton-Destin) Internal Medicine program is meticulously designed to cultivate a comprehensive educational atmosphere where residents engage in individualized learning opportunities. The program is underpinned by a strong commitment to the care and enhancement of human life, emphasizing a supportive community among faculty and staff.

Program Overview

The program is newly accredited by the ACGME as of January 2024 and began receiving its inaugural class of interns in July 2024. Training occurs at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, a highly esteemed acute care facility with 331 beds, well equipped with advanced medical services, including a Cancer Care Center and an Advanced Primary Stroke Center.

Clinical and Didactic Curriculum

Residents are immersed in a dynamic curriculum designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills for managing both acute and chronic conditions through comprehensive patient-centered care plans grounded in scientific evidence. The program facilitates wide-ranging exposure to general internal medicine and related subspecialties, equipping residents to pursue autonomous practice, subspecialty fellowship training, and certification.

Training Sites

Training will occur mainly at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, but will also extend to surrounding community clinics, including a partnership with White Wilson Medical Center that supports outpatient education.

Salary and Benefits

For the fiscal year 2023-2024, salaries for residents are structured as follows: PGY1: $60,792, PGY2: $62,892, PGY3: $65,056. Residents are entitled to educational leave pending program director approval, while also accumulating sick leave at a rate of 10 days per academic year. Benefits also include BLS and ACLS training, laptop access to medical records, and meals provided at the hospital cafeteria.

Research and Quality Improvement

The program promotes active participation in research and quality improvement projects in collaboration with the University of Central Florida College of Medicine and HCA Florida Healthcare. This includes an annual review of population health data aimed at enhancing patient health outcomes.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum aligns closely with resident rotations, offering protected educational time for weekly didactic conferences. These sessions focus on various aspects of internal medicine and feature subject matter experts from diverse specialties.

Rotations

The program ensures comprehensive training across various specialties, including but not limited to, cardiology, nephrology, and infectious disease. Furthermore, no overnight calls are mandated, and effective caps on patient assignments aim to provide optimal care and learning experiences.

Wellness and Support

The program incorporates wellness days and various activities that enhance a positive working environment. Strategies are enacted to ensure residents have time for personal health maintenance.

Application Requirements

The program welcomes applications from candidates who have achieved competitive scores on USMLE Step exams (greater than 219/234) or equivalent COMLEX scores. Candidates must be recent graduates (within two years) from LCME or COCA accredited schools to qualify fully. Both U.S. citizenship and EAD status are accepted, along with J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates.

Visa Support

The program provides sponsorship for J-1 visas through the ECFMG, facilitating entry for international medical graduates to participate in the residency.

Competitiveness

The program is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. It is competitive, but it is open to both U.S. MDs and DOs, as well as IMGs, promoting an acceptance policy that values diverse qualifications.

Faculty

The program is led by highly accomplished faculty and program directors who possess extensive training and are committed to enhancing the educational experience. Faculty members are involved in supervision, didactic teaching, and ensuring rigorous academic standards are upheld.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Director

Amanda J Finley, DOProgram Director Appointed Since January 2024 -

Program

Program Size

- (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Initial Accreditation since January 2024

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

60hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

12hrs

First Year Salary:

-

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

0.8X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

J1

YOG Cutoff:

5

Location

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Population
-
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
-

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Fort Walton Beach, FL

Fort Walton Beach, located in the scenic Florida Panhandle, offers a distinct lifestyle that is appealing to many. Below is a detailed overview of various aspects of living in this area:

Crime Rate and Safety

Fort Walton Beach has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. The city is generally considered safe, with community policing efforts contributing to a sense of security among residents.

Fun Activities

The area is known for its beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, offering activities such as swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Local parks, golf courses, and a vibrant nightlife with restaurants and bars enhance recreational options. Additionally, cultural attractions include museums and art galleries, and various community events throughout the year.

Climate

Fort Walton Beach has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach into the mid-90s °F (approximately 34 °C), while winter temperatures are usually in the 50s to low 60s °F (approximately 10 to 15 °C). The area experiences a fair amount of rainfall, particularly during the summer months.

Race and Population

The population of Fort Walton Beach is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities. As of the last census, the city had a population of around 20,000 residents, reflecting a community that values inclusivity.

Education

Fort Walton Beach has a range of educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools and nearby colleges and universities. The presence of military families contributes to a dynamic educational environment.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Fort Walton Beach is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive location for residents. Housing costs, in particular, are reasonable compared to larger metropolitan areas in Florida.

Nearby Cities

Fort Walton Beach is conveniently located near Destin, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant dining scene, which is about a 20-minute drive (approximately 10 miles) to the east. Pensacola, another larger city, is about an hour's drive (approximately 50 miles) to the west, offering additional urban amenities, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:
    • Low crime rate and safe community
    • Beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities
    • Affordable cost of living
    • Diverse population with a welcoming atmosphere
  • Cons:
    • Summer heat and humidity may be uncomfortable for some
    • Limited access to certain metropolitan amenities compared to larger cities
    • Potential seasonal tourism-related congestion

Overall, Fort Walton Beach presents a unique blend of coastal charm and community-focused living, making it a suitable location for residency programs and personal lifestyles alike.

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