University of Florida Program
Location:
Gainesville, FLSpecialty:
Transplant hepatologyACGME Code:
1581114018The University of Florida's Liver Transplant Program is a prominent entity within the UF Health Shands Transplant Center offering specialized training in transplant hepatology. The program encompasses more than two decades of clinical excellence in managing complex liver diseases, and it operates a multi-disciplinary approach that includes hepatologists, surgeons, nurse coordinators, pharmacists, and social workers, all of whom are dedicated to providing exceptional care to patients.
The program has an impressive record with over 8,000 organ transplants performed since its inception in 1966, including a consistent number of liver transplants ranging from 40 to 60 annually. This makes the University of Florida a key player in the southeastern United States for liver transplantation and hepatology services 1.
Curriculum and Training
The Transplant Hepatology Fellowship provided by the University of Florida includes extensive training in patient evaluation for liver transplant candidature, post-operative care, and long-term management of liver transplant recipients. A unique aspect of the fellowship is its integration with ongoing research that aims to improve therapeutic strategies for liver diseases.
Trainees will engage in various clinical rotations, which not only cover manual competencies but also emphasize the significance of a multidisciplinary team approach to healthcare. Educating fellows on the importance of screening at-risk patients for liver complications is a fundamental aspect of the training.
Research Opportunities
The program is deeply involved in research, focusing on advanced liver diseases and transplant medicine. Fellows have opportunities to participate in clinical trials assessing the efficacy of new therapies for hepatitis C, liver cancer, and other liver-related conditions. Recent publications from the research unit indicate a broad spectrum of investigative activity, yielding substantial contributions to the field of hepatology 8.
Rotations and Clinical Exposure
Fellows will rotate through various specialties that are integral to liver care, such as gastroenterology, surgery, oncology, and radiology. This exposure allows for comprehensive understanding and collaborative problem-solving in managing patients with liver disease.
Program Unique Features
The program's strength lies in its established history and its recognized expertise in handling higher-risk transplant candidates, which ensures that fellows are training in a rigorous environment while addressing significant health inequities. The team has a notable presence in national transplant policy-making, contributing to evolving standards of care 5.
Visa Support and Application Competitiveness
The University of Florida is committed to fostering an internationally diverse environment and therefore offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates. Specifically, the program supports J-1 visas for fellows who require it, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity in the training of future leaders in hepatology.
This fellowship program is known to be highly competitive, attracting applicants from both MD and DO backgrounds, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). Special application requirements include appropriate documentation of previous training and possibly the consideration of performance on USMLE or COMLEX examinations during the application review process.
Special Application Requirements
Generally, there are no strict limits on failed examinations, but applicants are advised to exhibit a consistent academic record and convey a strong statement of purpose. The program also emphasizes the importance of prior training in internal medicine or a related field as essential for entering the fellowship in transplant hepatology 6.
The University of Florida's Liver Transplant Program comprehensively covers patient care, education, and research, making it a distinguished choice for medical graduates pursuing training in transplant hepatology.
Website
Director
Roberto J Firpi, MD, MSProgram Director Appointed Since July 2005Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$80,193First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
10.5XResidents 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
