University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare (Greater Orlando/Osceola) Program
Location:
Kissimmee, FLSpecialty:
NeurologyACGME Code:
1801100155NRMP Program Code:
1587180C0Program Overview
The University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare Program in Neurology at Kissimmee provides residents with a dynamic and comprehensive training experience. The program operates under a collaborative environment that promotes academic excellence while delivering quality patient care. The training is conducted in affiliation with significant healthcare settings such as HCA Florida Osceola Hospital and the Orlando VA Medical Center.
The neurology curriculum is constructed to encompass diverse clinical experiences, with rotations that include inpatient, outpatient, and specialty care. This structure ensures that residents acquire a robust foundation in neurology, preparing them for various challenges they may encounter in their practice.
1Curriculum
The curriculum emphasizes a blend of hands-on clinical training and didactic learning, ensuring that residents can effectively apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The program includes an innovative academic framework, such as an academic half-day dedicated to core curriculum teaching, thereby allowing residents to focus on learning without the distraction of clinical duties.
Morning reports and morbidity and mortality (M&M) meetings are key components of the educational experience, offering residents opportunities to engage in case discussions, develop critical thinking, and learn from past cases to enhance patient care practices.
2Rotations
Residents participate in diverse rotations across several specialties. This exposure is designed to provide an all-encompassing experience in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. The residency is structured with a focus on essential areas in neurology, allowing for hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing neurological conditions.
3Clinical Training Sites
The program's clinical training sites—HCA Florida Osceola Hospital and the Orlando VA Medical Center—are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that facilitate a rich learning environment. These sites support a large volume of patients and cover a wide spectrum of neurological disorders, thereby allowing residents to gain significant clinical experience.
Additionally, the presence of multidisciplinary teams enables residents to collaborate with various health professionals, enhancing their learning and fostering a team-based approach to patient care.
4Research Opportunities
Research is a vital part of the residency experience, providing an opportunity for residents to enhance their academic profiles while contributing to the field of neurology. The program encourages participation in scholarly activities, offering support and guidance for residents working on case reports, presentations, and quality improvement projects.
Additionally, residents are given the opportunity to present their research at local and national conferences, which can significantly enhance their professional development and academic reputation.
5Visa Support
The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) looking to apply to the residency can be sponsored for J-1 visas, ensuring that they meet the immigration requirements to train in the United States.
This support is essential for IMGs who wish to pursue training in a competitive residency program like this, reflecting the program's commitment to fostering a diverse cohort of residents.
6Application Requirements
The application process is structured to select candidates who have demonstrated a strong foundation in the medical sciences. Applicants must submit their ERAS application form, medical school performance evaluation (MSPE), and at least three letters of recommendation, one of which must come from the department of medicine chair.
Pass rates on the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) are an essential aspect of the application, with residents encouraged to have passing scores within two years of graduation. Osteopathic applicants must provide COMLEX scores, reflecting the program's inclusivity towards various medical training backgrounds.
7Competitiveness
The program is highly competitive, attracting a diverse array of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. The inclusivity and supportiveness of the application approach are indicative of the program's commitment to considering a wide range of qualifications and experiences.
This diversity enriches the resident learning experience and better prepares them for future challenges in the medical field.
8Resident Wellbeing and Support
The culture of wellness is a cornerstone of the residency program, with a focus on maintaining a supportive environment for both residents and faculty. Regular resident retreats and social gatherings are organized to promote camaraderie and resilience among team members.
Additionally, the program incorporates mentoring systems to ensure that residents receive the guidance and support necessary to thrive both personally and professionally during their training.
9Website
Director
Ankur Garg, MDAssistant Professor of Neurology Appointed Since October 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
56hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$55,267First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
10 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
100%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
227Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
2Match History
1587180C0
2024
4 of 42023
4 of 42022
3 of 42021
3 of 32020
4 of 4Location
Kissimmee, FL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Kissimmee, FL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Kissimmee has a moderate crime rate but overall is considered a safe city. It is always advisable to take common safety precautions.
- Fun Activities: Kissimmee is known for its proximity to theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and golfing.
- Climate: Kissimmee has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. It receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
- Races and Population: The population of Kissimmee is diverse, with a mix of different races and cultures contributing to the community.
- Education: Kissimmee has good schools and educational institutions, providing options for families with children.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Kissimmee is slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing costs. However, prices can vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Kissimmee is close to Orlando, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Orlando offers a wide range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Proximity to theme parks, diverse population, good educational opportunities.
- Cons: Slightly higher cost of living, hot and humid summers.
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