University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare Program

The University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare Program offers a robust Transitional Year Residency program, fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program is tailored for residents who seek a comprehensive introduction to various specialties in a supportive environment. It is hosted at HCA Florida Osceola Hospital, with an annual intake of 14 positions available.

The program’s mission is to train the next generation of physicians and leaders in healthcare, guided by the ethos of HCA Healthcare: above all else, the commitment to the care and improvement of human life. An essential aspect of the program is its commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and professional growth, ensuring that residents receive both clinical experience and educational support that respects diverse backgrounds and practices.

Curriculum and Rotation Schedule

The Transitional Year program spans one year and emphasizes fundamental clinical skills through a structured curriculum. Residents complete a minimum of 24 weeks of rotations across essential disciplines, including:

• Emergency Medicine
• General Internal Medicine Inpatient Wards
• Adult Intensive Care Unit
• General Internal Medicine Ambulatory Clinic
• Surgery

After these required rotations, residents will have the flexibility to select elective rotations across a broad range of specialties, enhancing their education and exposure. The elective opportunities include options such as Allergy/Immunology, Anesthesiology, Cardiology, and many more, providing ample room for personalized training paths based on individual interests and career goals 1.

Didactic Curriculum

The didactic component of the residency is robust, featuring morning reports, journal clubs, case-based learning, and various multidisciplinary conferences. This aspect ensures that residents stay engaged with the latest medical knowledge while also honing their diagnostic and clinical skills through direct interaction with faculty members and peers 4.

Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty at the program comprises highly experienced professionals who specialize in various fields of medicine, providing an exceptional learning environment for residents. The program emphasizes mentorship, with faculty committed to not only educating residents but also supporting their professional journey. Core faculty members include leaders in their specialties, further enriching the educational experience of participants 3.

Application Requirements

The program is competitive, welcoming applications from a diverse pool of candidates, including international medical graduates (IMGs) and DO graduates. Applicants need to meet specific academic criteria, which typically include a focus on recent education and limitations regarding failed Step exams. It is advisable for applicants to review the detailed requirements that may include passing scores within a defined number of attempts and other relevant stipulations. Further details can be clarified during the application process 2.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates seeking to complete their residency in the United States. The institution sponsors J-1 visas, which are often the most common type of visa granted for residency programs, providing a pathway for qualified applicants from outside the U.S. to engage in clinical training 1.

Benefits and Support

The residency program provides a competitive salary along with a variety of benefits designed to enhance the educational experience and support the personal health and well-being of its residents. This includes professional memberships, travel expenses for conferences, and resources such as laptops and educational materials 4. The well-being of residents is prioritized, with structured opportunities for engagement and relaxation amidst the rigorous training schedule.