University of Florida Program

The University of Florida Program in Sports Medicine, a fellowship within the Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, offers a comprehensive training pathway for aspiring sports medicine professionals. The program is dedicated to developing exceptional sports medicine physicians equipped for lifelong learning and proficient in delivering care to a diverse patient population ranging in age, gender, race, ethnicity, and athletic ability.

Program Mission and Aims

The fellowship's mission is to train fellows who will succeed in their careers and contribute positively to the field of sports medicine. Program aims include ensuring over 90% of graduates pass the Sports Medicine Certification of Added Qualifications (CAQ) on their first attempt and having more than 50% of graduates enter sports medicine-related practice upon completion of the program 1.

Education and Training Structure

This ACGME-accredited fellowship is designed to last for 12 months and to provide extensive exposure to athletic teams and events at the University of Florida and the broader North Florida area. Daily activities occur primarily at the UF Student Health Care Center and the UF Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute. The fellowship includes valuable educational components such as musculoskeletal ultrasound training, orthopedic rotations, and concussion management, among other essential skills necessary for a comprehensive sports medicine education 1.

Clinical and Rotational Experiences

During their training, fellows have the opportunity to cover various teams, including the University of Florida athletic teams, Santa Fe College, and high schools in Alachua County. The fellowship provides team coverage for all sports, as well as special event coverage such as the Florida Relays. Additional unique experiences include rotations at the Intermountain Healthcare Sports Performance facility in Park City, Utah, and participation in the AMSSM National Meeting and WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida 1.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum encompasses a diverse array of educational experiences, including:

• Orthopedic rotations focusing on pediatrics, upper extremity, foot and ankle, spine, and sports surgery.
• Cadaver-based anatomy and physical therapy.
• Sports cardiology and musculoskeletal radiology.
• Research project involvement with faculty support for planning and IRB approval.
• Weekly didactic sessions focused on topics relevant to the CAQ exam.

In addition to the clinical training, fellows will engage in scholarly activities aimed at enhancing their knowledge and skills in sports medicine 1.

Eligibility Criteria

The program accepts up to three fellows each year. Eligible applicants must have completed residency training in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics from ACGME-accredited programs. Importantly, the program does not accept J-1 Visa applicants 1.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates seeking to apply to the program, it is essential to note that the fellowship accepts only those holding specific visa types, excluding J-1 Visas. This limitation might impact the competitiveness of the application for international applicants compared to those holding other visa types like H-1B 1.

Competitive Nature of the Program

The University of Florida Sports Medicine program is noted for being competitive, with rigorous selection criteria that may favor US graduates. However, the program’s emphasis on developing future sports medicine leaders may offer accessible pathways for DOs and a supportive environment for candidates from diverse backgrounds, including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) 1.

Application Process

Interested candidates must apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by a specified date. Applicants invited for interviews may need to submit copies of their publications and presentations as part of their application package 1. The program emphasizes evidence of scholarly activity, clinical acumen, and a commitment to sports medicine as pivotal components of the application process.

Resident Benefits

Fellows are hired as PGY-4 or PGY-5 housestaff, benefitting from salary and comprehensive benefits provided by the University of Florida College of Medicine. Additional perks include travel reimbursements and time away for national conferences, solidifying support for the fellows' professional development 1.

Program Accomplishments and Contributions

The fellowship has garnered recognition for producing high-caliber graduates, many of whom contribute significantly across various domains in sports medicine. The program's faculty are actively involved in research, national awards, and leadership roles within professional sports medicine organizations which enhance the training environment for fellows 1.

Living in Gainesville, FL

Located in Gainesville, Florida, the program offers residents a vibrant lifestyle enriched by outdoor activities, cultural events, and proximity to the University of Florida. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, collegiate sports atmosphere, and a diverse range of local dining and entertainment options, making it an excellent place for both personal and professional growth 1.