University of Miami/Jackson Health System Program

The University of Miami/Jackson Health System offers a Medical Genetics and Genomics Residency designed to train competent and independently practicing physicians in all areas of genetics. The program seeks to expose residents to cutting-edge clinical and translational genetics, fostering medical genetic knowledge critical for assessing, treating, and counseling patients with heritable genetic diseases.

Program Mission and Vision

The program at the University of Miami is dedicated to developing new physicians who can understand the implications of medical genetics across various medical disciplines. Residents are provided a robust educational framework to support lifelong learning and growth within medical genetics.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum emphasizes education through clinical encounters, didactics, and formal discussions facilitated by board-certified faculty, genetic counselors, and researchers. Residents take part in a wide range of educational activities, including participation in metabolic rounds, case presentations, and discussions related to the Undiagnosed Diseases Network clinic. The resident's clinical education is bolstered by laboratory rotations in biochemistry, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics.

Year 1

In the first year, residents observe and assist faculty members and genetic counselors during patient evaluations. Eventually, they take a more active role in patient and lab management as they demonstrate increasing competence. The supervision structure ensures that residents receive adequate support while gaining independence in diagnosing and counseling patients.

Year 2

The second year encourages residents to assume a more central role in providing genetic counseling and differential diagnosis with minimal input from attending physicians. The expectation is that by this stage, residents will effectively serve as consultants for patient evaluations.

Training Sites

The residency program is affiliated with several prominent institutions within the Jackson Health System, including:

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

Call Schedule

Residents participate in a call schedule that typically involves no more than six months of active calls per year, primarily for inpatient care and potential positive newborn screening cases. Calls during the weekend are generally taken from home, ensuring that adequate support is always present.

Application Information

The program accepts candidates through the National Resident Matching Program, requiring a minimum of three letters of recommendation. Applicants must have completed the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Steps 1, 2 Clinical Knowledge, and 2 Clinical Skills prior to acceptance, with Step 3 to be completed before graduation.

The residency is open to MD and DO physicians who have completed at least one year in an accredited residency program. For international applicants, J1-Visa sponsorship is available, specifically through the Alien Physician Program.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is recognized as competitive; however, it is relatively friendly towards DO and IMG candidates, thus broadening the potential applicant pool. Key points to consider in the application include a good performance on the USMLE exams and completion of prior postgraduate training.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research activities, contributing to the broader field of medical genetics and genomics. The program’s strong emphasis on scholarly activities and developmental support allows residents to explore specialties within the domain.

Unique Aspects

Noteworthy is the incorporation of telemedicine in patient care which aids in continuity of care and enhances the resident's training experience. Additionally, Miami’s vibrant cultural environment provides a stimulating backdrop for both professional and personal growth.

Alumni Placements

Graduates of the program have successfully secured positions in various prestigious medical facilities, including AdventHealth Medical Group, Stanford University, and the University of Oklahoma, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in preparing residents for successful medical careers.