University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare (Gainesville) Program

The University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare GME Consortium offers a comprehensive Geriatric Medicine Fellowship program designed to provide advanced training for physicians aiming to specialize in geriatric care. This program is part of a larger medical education initiative in collaboration with HCA Florida Healthcare, providing a robust educational experience in Geriatric Medicine, along with a focus on Family Medicine principles.

Program Structure and Mission

The mission of the University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare GME Consortium is to train exemplary physicians focused on high-quality, patient-centered healthcare. The program aims to create a structured learning environment encouraging clinical inquiry, teamwork, and evidence-based teaching across diverse communities. This mission extends to the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship, where fellows will gain practical experience directly applicable to various clinical settings.

Curriculum Overview

The Geriatric Medicine Fellowship curriculum is developed to meet the unique needs of older adults, emphasizing comprehensive geriatric assessments, management of chronic diseases, and an interdisciplinary approach to healthcare. The curriculum covers a range of topics including:

• Geriatric assessment and ethics
• Pharmacology in older adults
• Management of common geriatric syndromes
• Collaborative care strategies involving multiple disciplines

Fellows will also engage in didactic sessions, case discussions, and hands-on clinical training.

Clinical Rotations

The fellowship program’s clinical rotations take place in various healthcare settings, including:

• HCA Florida North Florida Hospital
• Community health settings
• Outpatient clinics specializing in geriatric care

These rotations provide fellows with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations, working alongside experienced faculty and attending physicians who are dedicated to teaching and mentorship.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to engage in research projects related to geriatric medicine, with support from the Office of Research GME at UCF. Fellows can pursue various research topics aimed at improving the quality of care for older adults and may present findings at regional and national conferences.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinguishing features of the University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare Geriatric Medicine Fellowship is the emphasis on serving diverse populations. This includes exposure to various socioeconomic backgrounds, which enhances fellows' understanding of disparities in healthcare access among older adults. The program also promotes a culture of wellness and addresses the potential stress associated with medical training through the Physician Learner Wellness Program, which offers counseling and support services.

Training Sites

The Geriatric Medicine Fellowship is primarily based at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital in Gainesville, providing fellows state-of-the-art facilities and access to various resources essential for training in Geriatric Medicine. Collaborating institutions within the UCF/HCA consortium further enrich fellows' training experiences.

Visa Support

The University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare GME Consortium offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates (IMGs) who seek to participate in the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship. The program typically supports J-1 visa sponsorship, an essential aspect for international applicants aiming to secure a training position.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship program is considered competitive, taking into account the qualifications of applicants from both U.S. and international medical schools. Applicants are expected to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in Family Medicine or Internal Medicine. There may be stipulations regarding the year of graduation and limitations on maximum failed STEP exams, underscoring the program's commitment to maintaining high standards among its fellows. All applications should be submitted through ERAS, following detailed instructions provided on the program’s application page.

Support Services

The program prioritizes the health and well-being of its fellows through a comprehensive support framework. Services include educational leave, mental health resources, and wellness programs aimed at maintaining a balanced approach to medical training. Fellows are encouraged to engage in self-reflective practices to monitor and enhance their overall well-being, complementing their intensive medical training.