The University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville offers a distinguished three-year, ACGME-accredited ophthalmology residency program designed to cultivate skilled professionals in the field of eye care. As a regional leader in both patient care and ophthalmic research, the program provides rigorous training alongside an innovative educational approach.
Curriculum
The curriculum is comprehensive and adheres to guidelines set forth by the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) and ACGME standards. It provides residents with a broad-based educational experience covering diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical skills essential for a comprehensive ophthalmic practice. The daily schedule includes mandatory conferences, lectures, and grand rounds. The program emphasizes a range of topics including clinical science, practice management, research development, morbidity and mortality discussions, and basic sciences, ensuring residents develop sound judgment in the application of their skills 3.
Clinical Rotations
Residents benefit from a wide array of clinical rotations focusing on different aspects of ophthalmology. The majority of the residency training occurs at UF Health Jacksonville, a leading teaching hospital with state-of-the-art facilities. Here, residents have access to advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment, catering to various specialties within ophthalmology. Notably, residents will engage with over 25,000 patient visits per year, including 10,000 comprehensive ophthalmology visits. Additional rotations for pediatric ophthalmology take place at Nemours Children's Health, and refractive surgery training occurs at the Naval Air Station Hospital 4.8
Research Opportunities
The program emphasizes research, encouraging residents to engage in clinically relevant studies. Each resident must complete at least one IRB-approved research project, culminating in a manuscript for publication. The department actively participates in numerous national clinical trials focused on retinal diseases, and offers residents the chance to collaborate and gain firsthand experience under the mentorship of faculty who are recognized leaders in their respective research areas 1013.
Facilities
The facilities at UF Health Jacksonville are equipped with cutting-edge technology and comprehensive research labs. They include dedicated ophthalmology operating rooms and specialized clinics that house essential diagnostic and therapeutic instrumentation such as OCT imaging, fundus photography, and advanced surgical devices. The availability of these resources allows residents to deliver quality care while honing their clinical skills 14.
Benefits and Resources
Residents in the program are provided with numerous benefits including competitive stipends, health insurance, and opportunities for professional development. Additionally, the program provides various resources to facilitate research and learning, including access to extensive library systems and counseling services 18.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is highly competitive and encourages applications from international medical graduates (IMGs) and doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs). It sponsors both J-1 and H-1B visa types, providing support for international applicants navigating the residency landscape 5. The program values diversity and actively seeks candidates with strong academic backgrounds and a demonstrated interest in ophthalmology, whether through clinical experiences or research endeavors.
Application Requirements
Prospective residents must register with the San Francisco Match and submit comprehensive application materials, including a personal statement addressing specific interests in the program. Three letters of recommendation are also required, with strong emphasis on medical school performance. All applications must be submitted by the specified deadlines; late applications will not be considered 19.
Unique Aspects
One of the unique elements of the UF College of Medicine Jacksonville residency program is its integrated approach to education, which emphasizes the development of both medical and professional skills. Residents participate in community engagement activities, enhancing their practical skills while serving the diverse community surrounding the campus. They also benefit from a well-rounded education that prioritizes both clinical skills and teaching abilities 1115.
Website
Director
Darrell WuDunn, MD, PhDProfessor; Program Director, Ophthalmology Residency Program; Chair, Department of Ophthalmology Appointed Since April 2019 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$66,137First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Jacksonville, FL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Jacksonville, FL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Jacksonville, FL, has a moderate crime rate, with certain neighborhoods experiencing higher crime levels. It is essential to research specific areas before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Jacksonville offers a variety of outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and diverse dining options. Residents can enjoy water sports, golfing, and nature parks.
- Climate: Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city can experience occasional hurricanes and thunderstorms due to its coastal location.
- Races and Population: Jacksonville has a diverse population with a mix of various races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural environment.
- Education: Jacksonville is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities for residents and offering a vibrant academic community.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Jacksonville is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Florida, with reasonable housing prices and overall living expenses.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Jacksonville is approximately a 2-hour drive away from Orlando and a 5-hour drive from Miami, making day trips to these bigger cities feasible for residents.
- Pros: Diverse cultural activities, affordable cost of living, proximity to beaches, and access to higher education institutions.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, potential weather challenges like hurricanes, and limited public transportation options.
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