University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare (Greater Orlando/Osceola) Program
Specialty:
SurgeryACGME Code:
4401100443NRMP Program Code:
1587440C1The University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare (Greater Orlando/Osceola) Program in Surgery is characterized by its commitment to developing skilled surgeons within an innovative and supportive training environment. The program emphasizes comprehensive surgical education combined with practical experiences across multiple esteemed healthcare facilities.
Program Structure
The surgery program offers a unique curriculum structured to provide exposure to a diverse patient population while training residents in various surgical specialties. The program focuses on an integrated approach involving three primary training sites: HCA Florida Osceola Hospital, the Orlando VA Healthcare System, and UCF Health, each recognized for various specialties and patient care excellence 1. This multidimensional training environment ensures residents gain a broad range of surgical experience, including general surgery and subspecialties.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to balance intensive clinical training with extensive didactic learning. Residents participate in an array of educational experiences, including:
Core Didactics
Regular lectures and seminars take place throughout the program, focusing on essential surgical principles, techniques, and advancements. These sessions are tailored to keep residents abreast of the latest practices and innovations in surgery while promoting critical thinking and decision-making skills among trainees 2.
Rotations
The program offers a robust rotation schedule, allowing residents to rotate through various surgical services. This rotation structure not only helps residents refine their surgical skills, but also fosters collaboration and teamwork, vital for a successful surgical practice. The rotations typically encompass general surgery, trauma, pediatrics, and other surgical subspecialties 3.
Simulation and Skills Training
To enhance hands-on experience, the program emphasizes simulation-based learning. Residents engage in simulations for various surgical procedures, elevating their procedural confidence and expertise 4.
Research Opportunities
Research is a crucial component of the residency program, with multiple opportunities for residents to engage in scholarly activities. The program encourages residents to participate in clinical research projects that impact surgical practices and patient care quality, often culminating in presentations at national conferences. There is a dedicated research mentorship team that supports residents in identifying research areas, developing projects, and presenting findings 5.
Special Application Requirements
The application process for the surgery residency program is competitive, emphasizing the quality of candidates. Applicants must have graduated from medical school within a specified time frame. While detailed metrics for STEP exam scores or additional qualifications are not explicitly outlined, the program seeks to attract high-achieving candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to surgery, and dedication to patient care 6.
Visa Support
For international medical graduates, J-1 visas are sponsored, enabling eligible applicants to participate in the surgery residency program in compliance with U.S. immigration laws. This sponsorship reflects the program's commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the cohort 7.
Competitiveness and Diversity
The program fosters an environment that is both competitive and supportive. It actively encourages applications from osteopathic graduates and international medical graduates, ensuring that the residency body is diverse and enriched by various perspectives in medical training. This approach also prepares residents to engage effectively with a wide-ranging patient population 8.
Training Environment
Living in Orlando offers residents a vibrant backdrop for both professional and personal experiences. The area is well-known for its attractions, dynamic cultural scenes, recreational opportunities, and strong community vibe. This positive environment complements the rigorous demands of surgical training and fosters social connections among residents 9.
Website
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Director
Adela T Casas-Melley, MDProgram Director Appointed Since December 2022Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
80 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
24 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$59,627First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
5 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
25%Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
240Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
2Match History
1587440C1
2024
3 of 32023
3 of 32022
3 of 32021
3 of 32020
3 of 3Location
Orlando, FL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Orlando, FL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Orlando's overall crime rate is higher than the national average, with property crime being more prevalent than violent crime. It is important to be cautious in certain neighborhoods and practice safety measures.
- Fun Activities: Orlando is famous for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. The city also offers outdoor activities, restaurants, shopping, and cultural events.
- Climate: Orlando has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Be prepared for frequent rain showers, especially during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Orlando is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The population is growing rapidly due to the city's appeal to tourists and residents alike.
- Education: Orlando has a variety of educational opportunities, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities. The city also has a strong focus on STEM education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Orlando is relatively high compared to the national average, especially in terms of housing and healthcare. However, there are affordable neighborhoods and living options available.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Orlando is located about 4 hours away from Miami by car, which offers a vibrant urban experience with a mix of cultures and nightlife. Tampa is about 1.5 hours away, known for its waterfront attractions and cultural scene.
- Pros: Abundant entertainment options, diverse community, educational opportunities, and proximity to other major cities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate, humid climate, and above-average cost of living.