University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville Program

The University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville offers an ACGME-accredited one-year vascular neurology fellowship that is structured to equip fellows with competencies in stroke management and related clinical procedures. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive, hands-on experience that combines clinical training with exposure to subspecialty areas such as interventional neuroradiology, vascular neurosurgery, and neurosonology. The fellowship utilizes a competency-based curriculum that emphasizes not only clinical experiences but also research opportunities and interventional methods.

Curriculum Overview

The vascular neurology curriculum fosters a learning environment that encourages mentorship and skill development. Fellows are trained under the guidance of a multidisciplinary faculty known for their expertise in various fields related to stroke management. The curriculum includes:

• Inpatient stroke rotations wherein fellows supervise a team, including neurology residents and other health professionals, focusing on TIA, ischemic, and hemorrhagic strokes.
• A neuroimaging rotation that familiarizes fellows with diagnostic angiography and the imaging of stroke.
• Exposure to interventional procedures such as clot retrieval and aneurysm coiling, along with opportunities to assist experienced faculty.
• A neurosonology rotation that involves training in transcranial Doppler ultrasonography and carotid ultrasounds.

Fellows also have consultative roles, providing services across the hospital, including the emergency department and intensive care units. This extensive clinical exposure is complemented by teaching conferences, research seminars, and case discussions that occur regularly throughout the fellowship year.

Research Opportunities

Research is a key component of the vascular neurology fellowship. The University of Florida encourages fellows to engage in clinical research and scholarly activities, including presentations at medical meetings and manuscript submissions. The program offers resources such as access to a biostatistics team for consultation and a Dean's Fund Research Grant for funding independent research projects.

Training Facilities

Training is conducted at the UF Health Neuroscience Institute, recognized as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. The facility is equipped for advanced stroke care and incorporates a helicopter air ambulance service linking multiple counties in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia. Future developments include the anticipated operationalization of a mobile stroke treatment unit.

Benefits and Support

The fellowship offers a competitive stipend alongside a wide array of benefits aimed at supporting the professional and personal well-being of fellows. Some of these benefits include:

• Health insurance coverage for fellows and their dependents.
• Meal allowances provided during call shifts.
• Disability insurance coverage and life insurance.
• Parking facilities that are readily available for fellows at no charge.

Additionally, fellows have access to resident assistance programs, counseling services, and various educational resources, contributing to a supportive learning environment.

Application Requirements

To apply for the vascular neurology fellowship, potential candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including completion of an accredited neurology residency program. The program is generally competitive, and it accepts applicants from diverse backgrounds including both US and International Medical Graduates (IMGs), making it an inclusive environment.

Visa Support

The fellowship program supports visa sponsorship for qualified applicants, specifically offering support for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This is essential for international candidates who wish to train in the United States as it allows them to fulfill the educational and clinical requirements of the fellowship.

Conclusion

The University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville offers a robust and well-rounded vascular neurology fellowship that aims to produce highly skilled and knowledgeable clinicians. Through a combination of rigorous clinical training, research opportunities, and a supportive educational environment, fellows are prepared to excel in the field of vascular neurology.