University of Florida (Pensacola) Program

The Pediatrics Residency Program at Ascension Sacred Heart, affiliated with the University of Florida, is committed to providing a comprehensive training experience. Established in 1965, the program focuses on serving all children, especially the underserved and vulnerable populations. The program aims to help residents realize their full potential in academic, clinical, and personal aspects within a supportive environment.

During the three-year training program, residents are exposed to diverse clinical experiences, including primary care, ambulatory medicine, pediatric emergency medicine, and various outpatient rotations like adolescent medicine and behavioral and developmental medicine. Rotations cover newborn nursery, neonatal intensive care, pediatric intensive care, and medical-surgical units.

The curriculum includes elective rotations to pursue individual interests, supported by subspecialist physicians for guidance. Residents participate in simulation and mock code activities to enhance skills in emergent patient scenarios. The program fosters a commitment to serving all children while emphasizing hands-on learning from attending physicians and senior residents.

Residents progress through PGY-1 to PGY-3 levels, gradually assuming more responsibilities in patient care, procedures, and teaching roles. Each year includes a variety of rotations, elective time, and exposure to subspecialties. The program also encourages research participation, offering resources and mentorship for scholarly activities.

The program offers a competitive benefits package, including health, vision, dental, and life insurance, along with paid vacations, CME allowance, and a research stipend. Annual salaries for residents increase with each year of training. Educational resources, including a Resident Educational Allowance, support resident learning and professional growth.

While the program expresses a commitment to training exceptional pediatric residents from diverse backgrounds, its application process is standard and includes requirements such as ERAS submission, USMLE scores, letters of recommendation, and specific eligibility criteria for international medical graduates. The program supports J-1 visas exclusively for IMGs.

Overall, the Ascension Sacred Heart Pediatric Residency Program, affiliated with the University of Florida, offers a structured and supportive environment for residents to develop competencies in patient care, knowledge, communication, professionalism, and systems-based practice, preparing them for independent practice in pediatrics. The program's collaboration with various partners enhances the educational experience and clinical exposure for residents.