University of Miami/Jackson Health System Program

Overview

The University of Miami/Jackson Health System Medical Genetics and Genomics Residency program aims to prepare residents to become competent, independently practicing physicians in the field of genetics. The program focuses on providing a well-rounded education that encompasses clinical and translational genetics, allowing residents to engage deeply with patient care and research initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the program, candidates must meet specific requirements including completion of several pivotal medical licensing examinations. All residency applicants must successfully complete the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1, Step 2 Clinical Knowledge, and Step 2 Clinical Skills prior to acceptance. Applicants must also complete Step 3 prior to graduation from the program. The residency is open to both MD and DO physicians who have completed at least 12 months in an accredited residency program. A minimum of three letters of recommendation are required to be submitted as part of the application process.

Duration and Structure

The residency program is designed to last for a duration of two years. In the first year, residents primarily observe and participate in genetic counseling, working closely with faculty and genetic counselors during patient evaluations. By the second year, residents are expected to take a more active role in patient evaluations, diagnostics, and counseling, developing skills that enable them to consult independently.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured around intensive clinical training, research, and didactic sessions. Educational activities include metabolic rounds, board review sessions, grand rounds, and case conferences, all designed to ensure comprehensive knowledge acquisition.

During the first year, residents spend time rotating through various genetics specialties and engage in observing patient histories and examinations, while gradually moving towards performing these tasks independently under supervision. In the second year, residents operate with increased autonomy, often consulting as the primary provider, which fosters leadership and advanced clinical skills.

Training Sites

The residency program utilizes several prominent facilities for training, including:

• Jackson Memorial Hospital
• Bascom Palmer Eye Institute
• Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
• Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center (Miami and Deerfield)
• The Lennar Foundation Medical Center
• Weston Family Health Center

This diversity in training sites ensures that residents are exposed to a wide variety of cases and practices in medical genetics.

Research Opportunities

In addition to clinical training, research is a vital component of the program. Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities to enhance their understanding of genetics and contribute to advancements in the field. The program’s collaboration with a robust research center supports this commitment.

Visa Sponsorship

The program sponsors the J-1 Visa (Alien Physician Program) for international medical graduates. This visa, supported by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates, is standard for residents and fellows who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Candidates seeking residency positions should ensure they meet the necessary visa eligibility requirements.

Competitiveness

The program is known to be competitive, attracting a diverse pool of applicants. It is friendly towards both Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) candidates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs), making it an inclusive program for those with various educational backgrounds.

Call Schedule

Residency call schedules generally depend on the residents’ rotations. Typically, calls do not exceed six months a year, with weekday calls focusing on inpatient care and potential newborn screening cases. Weekend calls can be taken from home, ensuring a good work-life balance.

Alumni Outcomes

Graduates of the program have successfully transitioned into rewarding careers in various medical genetics and genomics roles. Notable placements include institutions such as AdventHealth Medical Group, Stanford University, and the University of Illinois at Chicago, highlighting the program's ability to prepare residents for successful careers post-training.