University of Florida Program

The University of Florida (UF) Emergency Medicine Residency Program in Gainesville is dedicated to training well-rounded clinicians poised to lead in the fields of education, research, and practice within emergency medicine. This comprehensive program is aimed at cultivating leaders who embody excellence and compassion in patient care while also promoting innovative research and education initiatives.

Program Overview

The residency is structured as a PGY 1-3 program, where trainees engage in a diverse array of clinical experiences across multiple rotations and settings. The program at UF is designed to provide residents with exposure to both high-acuity emergency cases and the breadth of medical practice through structured rotations across various specialties.

Curriculum and Rotations

The PGY-1 year includes an extensive orientation during the first month spent primarily in the emergency department (ED). Residents begin with protected shifts, enabling them to become familiar with the ED environment and to practice core emergency treatments under supervision. The curriculum covers critical subjects including trauma, cardiology, pediatrics, and ultrasound, promoting proficiency in essential procedures and knowledge areas necessary for emergency physicians.

As they progress, PGY-2 and PGY-3 residents take on greater responsibilities, actively managing patient care independently while mentoring newer residents and medical students. The residency emphasizes hands-on training through various simulation sessions and didactic lectures, which address current practices and emerging technology in emergency medicine.

Rotational Details

During residency, PGY-1 residents will rotate through several key areas:

• Emergency Medicine Orientation (4 weeks)
• Trauma (4 weeks)
• General Surgery, Orthopedics, Critical Care (total of 12 weeks)
• Obstetrics and Gynecology (3 weeks)
• Hands-on Ultrasound training included throughout the first year

In the subsequent years, rotations expand into critical care, pediatrics, and fellow-focused areas emphasizing EMS and community-based practice, with opportunities to explore elective specialties based on individual interests.

Research Opportunities

The residency program emphasizes research with mandatory projects that must be completed prior to graduation. Residents are encouraged to participate in quality improvement initiatives, leveraging the wealth of resources available at UF Health, a top-tier institution known for its robust research infrastructure.

Training Sites

Residents practice at several prominent facilities, including the UF Health Shands Hospital, renowned for its Level I trauma designation and extensive patient acuity. This includes a dedicated pediatric emergency center and two freestanding emergency departments, allowing for diverse clinical exposure and experience in various emergency scenarios across a large catchment area.

Fellowship and Career Preparation

The program boasts a strong track record of graduates pursuing advanced training in specialized fellowships in areas such as critical care, pediatric emergency medicine, and global health. Approximately 40% of residents continue into fellowship programs, reflecting the depth of training received during their residency.

Benefits and Wellness

UF offers comprehensive benefits for residents, including health insurance, generous vacation time (three weeks per year), stipends for food and education, and access to necessary certifications relevant to practice in emergency medicine. Notably, the program promotes wellness through organized retreats and social activities to foster community among the residents.

Application Process

The program is competitive, accepting only 14 residents per class. Candidates must hold an M.D. or D.O. degree and possess a valid STEP score for USMLE or COMLEX examinations. The selection process favors applicants that have prior exposure to emergency medicine, often indicated by letters of reference from EM physicians in the eSLOE format. It is vital that applicants submit complete applications in a timely manner as the program conducts interviews on a rolling basis.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UF Emergency Medicine Program actively fosters a diverse training environment. The program encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including international medical graduates. This commitment supports a learning atmosphere that values different perspectives and experiences.

Visa Sponsorship

The program can provide sponsorship for J-1 visas for international medical graduates and supports applicants navigating the requirements for work authorization. It is advisable for all non-U.S. citizens to inquire about specific eligibility criteria during the application process.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A defining feature of the UF Emergency Medicine Residency is its commitment to innovative teaching methods, including case-based learning and real-time simulation training, reflecting broader trends in medical education. UF Health’s involvement in global health initiatives further amplifies the educational experience, preparing residents for potential roles in diverse healthcare settings.

Overall, the University of Florida Emergency Medicine Residency Program offers an intensive, hands-on training environment that effectively prepares residents for their future roles as leaders in emergency medicine.