University of Florida Program
Location:
Gainesville, FLSpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1501121025The University of Florida's Rheumatology Fellowship Program is dedicated to advancing the field of rheumatology through comprehensive training that encompasses patient care, education, and research. This two-year fellowship program aims to develop highly skilled rheumatologists by providing a structured curriculum that integrates both clinical practice and research opportunities.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is designed to foster proficiency in rheumatology through various educational modalities. Fellows participate in general and disease-specific clinics, inpatient consultations, didactic sessions, multidisciplinary conferences, and hands-on training with simulation tools for joint injections. All fellows will engage in a quality improvement project and are expected to publish at least one scholarly work or case report during their fellowship.8
Training Objectives
Upon completion of the program, fellows will possess the competencies necessary for effective patient care in rheumatology. These competencies align with the six ACGME domains, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded practitioners.16
Rotational Experience
Fellows will gain clinical exposure in multiple settings, which include rotations in ambulatory care across seven faculty-run clinics. Each fellow will also have continuity clinic experiences during both years. Optional elective rotations are available in the departments of Pediatrics and Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation.11
Patient Care Focus
The program emphasizes a team-based approach to patient care, particularly for systemic autoimmune diseases and related rheumatic conditions. The consult service operates at the UF Health Shands Hospital and the Gainesville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where approximately 8-10 new patients are evaluated each week. This allows fellows to gain comprehensive clinical training in both outpatient and inpatient environments.12
Specialized Clinics
In addition to general rheumatology clinics, specialized units are devoted to managing conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and spondyloarthritis. The creation of a distinct Vasculitis Unit is anticipated in the near future, further enhancing patient care resources.19
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with a strong focus on clinical and basic scientific studies of autoimmune diseases. The fellowship leverages the resources of the NIH-supported UF Clinical Research Center and the Autoimmune Disease Center, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research.18
Fellows are expected to actively participate in ongoing studies and may get involved in new research initiatives that explore disease mechanisms, treatment responses, and advanced diagnostics for conditions like SLE and rheumatoid arthritis.15
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program sponsors J1 visas for international applicants, ensuring they meet the necessary legal requirements for participation in the fellowship.8
Applicants must be board-certified or board-eligible in Internal Medicine and should be licensed to practice in Florida. Only candidates who have successfully passed the USMLE Step III prior to beginning the fellowship will be considered. The application process requires submission of a CV, personal statement, and three letters of recommendation, along with a medical school transcript and diploma.16
Competitiveness and Applicant Profile
The University of Florida Rheumatology Fellowship is considered to be competitive, attracting a broad spectrum of applicants, including U.S. medical graduates as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program particularly emphasizes diversity and the inclusion of candidates with varied educational backgrounds, enhancing the learning environment for all fellows.9
Training Facilities
The fellowship takes place primarily at UF Health Shands Hospital, a 939-bed major referral center, alongside the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center with 350 beds. These facilities provide a vast array of clinical opportunities and serve as pivotal training sites for fellows.10
Educational Environment
Fellows benefit from an enriching educational environment, characterized by an emphasis on research and clinical excellence. Weekly faculty-led conferences cover an array of topics from foundational rheumatology concepts to current research advancements, ensuring continuous learning and professional development.18
Website
Director
Eric S Sobel, MD, PhDAssociate Professor, PD, CCC and PEC member Appointed Since September 2002Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$64,577First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
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.
Interview Questions
