University of Florida Program

The University of Florida Program in Pathology-Anatomic and Clinical offers a comprehensive residency training program that provides instruction in both anatomic and clinical pathology. The program is designed to meet all requirements for board certification in anatomic and clinical pathology (AP/CP) and includes opportunities for research and clinical responsibilities.

The residency consists of a four-year training period, with 16 positions funded by UF Health Shands Hospital and the Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center. As residents progress, they gain increasing responsibility in clinical services, including reviewing laboratory data, making decisions on abnormal test results, completing evaluations of frozen sections and surgical specimens, and supervising junior residents 1.

Mission and Goals

The program's overarching mission aligns with the University of Florida College of Medicine's commitment to improving healthcare through excellent education, clinical care, and research. The goal is to foster high-quality postgraduate education leading to board certification while ensuring a supportive environment that nurtures residents into skilled pathologists.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured around a basic four-year training program that covers the full spectrum of both anatomic and clinical pathology. Residents will preview over 2,000 surgical pathology cases, examine more than 500 cytology specimens, and perform various procedures, including 30 autopsies. This comprehensive exposure is further enriched by elective rotations starting in the second year 1. Notable highlights include:

• First-year focus on laboratory medicine and surgical pathology.
• Elective blocks to explore specific interests in pathology subspecialties.
• Extensive surgical pathology subspecialty rotations in areas such as breast, GI, ENT, and dermatopathology.

In addition to clinical duties, residents participate in educational conferences, workshops, and case presentations, organized by organ system, providing a thorough grounding in pathology.

Research and Teaching Opportunities

Residents in the program are encouraged to engage in teaching and research. Those who are in more advanced years often lead instructional sessions for junior residents and medical students. Research opportunities span both basic and clinical science, allowing residents to explore the etiology and management of diseases and present findings during departmental Grand Rounds 1.

Fellowship Placements

The residency program boasts a strong record of residency graduates securing positions in prestigious fellowship programs across various subspecialties. The alumni have gone on to pursue fellowships in forensic pathology, gastrointestinal pathology, hematopathology, and others at renowned institutions 1.

Application Process

Applications for the program are accepted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). While letters of recommendation from any specialty are welcome, it is advisable that at least two come from pathologists. There are no specific cutoff scores for examinations or GPA required for application consideration. Applicants must also provide proof of COVID-19 vaccinations prior to starting the residency program 1.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). H-1B visa sponsorship may be considered only in limited cases. Permanent resident aliens with work authorization are also eligible to apply 1.

Benefits and Stipend

Residents are offered a competitive stipend and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, a retirement plan, and 15 vacation days per academic year. Additionally, residents receive an annual “flex-fund” for educational expenses and a yearly food stipend for use at the hospital's dining facilities 1.

Competitiveness

The program is noted for being highly competitive, making it essential for applicants to present a strong application alongside relevant experience in pathology.