University of Florida Program

Program Overview

The Community Health and Family Medicine Residency Program at the University of Florida was established in 1973. It has produced hundreds of family physicians who practice across the United States and Canada. This program focuses on training family medicine physicians dedicated to providing excellent, ethical, humanistic, and cost-effective care to diverse populations. The overarching aim is to ensure 100% of graduates achieve board certification in family medicine upon completion of the program. Graduates of the program have pursued careers in solo practices, group practices, academics, and have also completed various fellowships.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to offer residents a comprehensive education across various medical disciplines. The first year (PGY 1) includes intensive training with two clinic sessions per week, covering family medicine inpatient services, night float services, OB, pediatrics, and various elective rotations. The program follows a “2+2 mini-block” schedule, where residents spend two weeks in a continuity clinic and two weeks on other rotations each month. This structure enhances continuity in patient care while providing diverse learning experiences.

Areas of Concentration

The program offers four optional Areas of Concentration (AOCs) for residents who wish to specialize further. These include:

• Sports Medicine: Involves clinical experiences with athletes and learning opportunities in orthopedic evaluation.
• Women’s Health: Focuses on advanced gynecological and obstetric care, tailored education, and hands-on experiences.
• Underserved Medicine: Concentrates on the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural and urban underserved populations.
• Academic Medicine: Provides exposure to teaching, scholarly activity, and leadership opportunities in various academic settings.

Training Sites

The primary training sites for the residency include:

• UF Health Shands Hospital: A tertiary care center that offers high-quality training with diverse patient populations, including complex cases.
• UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital: Emphasis on pediatric training, offering experiences across various pediatric services.
• Malcom Randall VA Medical Center: Provides care for veterans and exposure to a range of medical diagnoses.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities that enhance their learning experiences and contribute to the field of family medicine. The UF Family Medicine Residency has a strong emphasis on scholarship and innovation, supported by faculty expertise in various research domains.

Application Requirements

Application to the residency program is through the National Residency Match Program (NRMP) via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must have completed medical school within the last two years, possess recent clinical experience in the U.S. for 9-12 months, and demonstrate proficiency in English. International medical graduates must hold valid ECFMG certification and may require J-1 visa sponsorship. A maximum of one failed USMLE/COMLEX exam attempt is accepted.

Visa Sponsorship

The residency program can sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates, which allows them to undertake residency training in the United States. Permanent residency status is also acceptable for applicants.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The program is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, actively recruiting residents from various backgrounds, including DO and IMG candidates. As such, it is considered IM-friendly and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the diversity of the population it serves.

Benefits

Residents receive competitive salaries, starting at $63,978 for PGY I, and increasing annually, as well as paid time off, moonlighting opportunities, and full fee coverage for licensure and board certifications. Additional benefits include personalized business cards, support for national conferences, gym discounts, and a comprehensive healthcare benefits package.

Living in Gainesville

Gainesville is a vibrant city with a unique blend of metropolitan amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities. The climate is characterized by mild winters and warm summers, perfect for various activities, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring nearby springs. The city also hosts numerous cultural events, theaters, and festivals, providing residents with a rich and enjoyable lifestyle.

A Day in the Life

Residents describe a fulfilling balance between outpatient and inpatient training. The supportive culture among residents and faculty promotes both personal and professional growth. The program’s structure allows opportunities for moonlighting and participating in specialized clinics, fostering an enriching training environment.