University of Florida College of Medicine (Pensacola) Program

The University of Florida College of Medicine in Pensacola offers an Internal Medicine Residency program at Ascension Sacred Heart designed to train physicians for the evolving challenges of modern medicine. This three-year program prepares residents to deliver high-quality care and to pursue fellowship training according to their individual career aspirations. The program prioritizes serving the medically underserved populations of Northwest Florida and South Alabama, ensuring that residents are immersed in a diverse patient population.

The Internal Medicine Residency program's mission emphasizes developing compassionate and dedicated internists. To this end, the program seeks to balance clinical training with comprehensive educational opportunities, fostering a supportive learning environment that cultivates professionalism and mutual respect among faculty and residents 1.

Program Structure

The residency encompasses three years, each with unique focuses designed to progressively build the resident's knowledge and skill sets.

First Year

During the first year, residents lay the foundation of clinical practice across core aspects of internal medicine, including rotations in general medicine, cardiology, pulmonology, and critical care. First-year residents join the CODE team and have structured support from faculty and senior residents 1.

Second Year

The second year expands the residents' exposure to subspecialties while emphasizing procedural competency and leadership roles within the medical team. Residents are encouraged to engage in hospital committees and begin data collection for research projects 1.

Third Year

The final year allows residents to refine their skills through electives and culminates in research presentations at the annual Research Night event. It further focuses on clinical autonomy and encourages mentorship roles 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured into twelve four-week rotations each year, including dedicated time for general medicine and various sub-disciplines. This structured approach ensures that residents gain comprehensive exposure to the field, preparing them for varied practices in internal medicine.

Required Rotations

• First Year (PGY-1): 5 blocks General Medicine, 1 block Intensive Care, 1 block Cardiology, 1 block Pulmonology, 1 block Gastroenterology, 1 block OB/GYN, 2 elective blocks.
• Second Year (PGY-2): 5 blocks General Medicine, 1 block Intensive Care, 1 block Infectious Disease, 1 block Emergency Medicine, 1 block Hematology/Oncology, 3 elective blocks.
• Third Year (PGY-3): 4 blocks General Medicine, 1 block Inpatient Geriatrics, 1 block Neurology, 1 block Rheumatology, 1 block Endocrinology, 1 block Nephrology, 3 elective blocks.

This approach to residency training supports both the development of clinical competencies and the fostering of an inquisitive, research-oriented mindset 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Florida College of Medicine is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in its residency program. The program actively seeks to include a variety of perspectives and experiences, enhancing educational richness and the overall learning environment 1.

Application Process

Applying to the program requires the completion of the ERAS application and includes specific requirements for international medical graduates, like a valid ECFMG certificate and US clinical experience. For graduates from international medical schools, the program only offers sponsorship for a J-1 visa. Applicants must achieve a minimum USMLE step 1 and step 2 CK score of 220 or higher and can have no more than two years elapsed since graduation from medical school. Successful completion of Steps 1 and 2 is required before graduation 2.

Competitiveness

This program is considered competitive, reflecting a commitment to training high caliber residents. It welcomes a diverse range of candidates, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds, looking to pursue a robust training experience in internal medicine.

Benefits

The residency program provides a comprehensive benefits package. Key components include:

• Annual Salary: PGY-1: $63,978, PGY-2: $66,137, PGY-3: $68,420.
• Major Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Continuing Medical Education stipend and an educational allowance of $600 annually.
• Meal stipend for work-related culinary needs.

This structured support and value offered by the program underscores a dedication to resident well-being and professional development 1.