University of Florida College of Medicine Program
Location:
Gainesville, FLSpecialty:
Child neurologyACGME Code:
1851118101NRMP Program Code:
1824185R0, 1824185C0Welcome to the University of Florida Child Neurology Residency Program, a prominent national training program dedicated to child neurology (pediatric neurology). The mission of the program is to expand the frontiers of clinical care, education, and research in the field. An outstanding educational environment is provided to prepare the next generation of child neurologists. The Department of Pediatrics boasts over 120 faculty members and more than 60 residents and fellows, creating a robust learning atmosphere.
UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital is the only quaternary-care academic pediatric center in North Florida, dedicated to providing excellent patient care services focused on enhancing children's health. Through medical education and biomedical research, the program aims to improve lives not just locally but around the globe 1.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The residency program offers a unique five-year categorical program that requires trainees to complete two years of pediatrics residency followed by three years specializing in pediatric neurology 3. This structure allows residents to engage in clinical practice while gradually transitioning into more specialized areas of neurology. The program emphasizes extensive collaboration with other departments, providing valuable opportunities for interdisciplinary training and exposure to various aspects of pediatric healthcare.
During the first two years, residents develop core competencies in general pediatrics before progressing to pediatric neurology. The adult neurology training is distributed over all three years of the neurology training, ensuring that residents gain comprehensive exposure while taking on increasing responsibilities 3.
Research and Scholarly Activity
Research is highly encouraged, with opportunities tailored to the personal interests of residents. Trainees can engage in projects ranging from case reports and retrospective studies to clinical trials and laboratory research 1. This focus on research allows residents to contribute to advancements in the field while also aiding their own educational experience.
Training Sites
The program utilizes UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital as its pediatric teaching hospital, which has received national recognition for its educational and clinical programs. This hospital serves as the primary clinical site for rotations, providing a hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art facility 3.
Application Information
Applications for the residency are reviewed beginning in late September. Candidates must submit a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation that speak to their personal and professional qualities, USMLE scores, a candidate personal statement, and an ECFMG status report if applicable 2.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is supportive of international medical graduates, offering sponsorship for relevant visas, such as the J-1 visa, which is commonly used for residency training. While the program is competitive, it is considered friendly toward DO and IMG candidates, aiming to foster a diverse and inclusive training environment 1.
Unique Aspects
The program's mission extends beyond clinical training to include a significant emphasis on advocacy and community engagement. Residents are encouraged to understand the critical health needs of the populations they serve and to cultivate a compassionate approach to patient care 3. Additionally, the fellowship experience is designed to prepare graduates for board certification by both the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, allowing them to practice independently as pediatric neurologists.
Goals and Objectives
The program is committed to alleviating the workforce shortage in Pediatric Neurology in Florida and beyond. It trains skilled professionals who will become lifelong learners and advocates for children’s health. The aim is to equip residents with comprehensive knowledge and clinical skills that enable them to provide evidence-based care integrated with advanced scientific knowledge 3. The program also seeks to increase the overall training capacity through funded categorical positions.
Website
Director
Carla Zingariello, DOResidency Program Director and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Appointed Since March 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
23hrsFirst Year Salary:
$68,420First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
100%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
203Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
1824185C0
2024
2 of 22023
2 of 22022
2 of 22021
1 of 22020
0 of 11824185R0
2024
0 of 12022
1 of 12021
0 of 1Location
Gainesville, FL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Gainesville, FL
Gainesville, FL is a vibrant city known for its academic atmosphere as the home of the University of Florida. Here are some aspects of living in Gainesville:
- Safety: Gainesville has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in Florida, making it a generally safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: The city offers a range of outdoor activities due to its proximity to nature, with parks, trails, and springs. There are also cultural events, restaurants, and nightlife options.
- Climate: Gainesville has a warm and humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers.
- Races and Population: Gainesville is a diverse city with a mix of races and a population that reflects its university town character.
- Education: The presence of the University of Florida provides opportunities for educational and cultural enrichment.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Gainesville is lower compared to major cities in Florida, making it more affordable for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Gainesville is located about 2 hours from Orlando and 1.5 hours from Jacksonville by car. Orlando offers theme parks like Disney World, while Jacksonville has beaches and cultural attractions.
- Pros: Academic environment, diverse community, lower cost of living compared to other Florida cities.
- Cons: Humid summers, limited public transportation options.