University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program

The Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine offers a comprehensive one-year accredited program tailored for qualified applicants from Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine residency backgrounds. The fellowship is designed to cultivate the next generation of sports medicine clinicians by providing an immersive training experience with a multidisciplinary team.

Fellows will engage in various clinical activities and sports medicine practices, gaining exposure to a wide range of topics. These include but are not limited to sports-related concussions, the female athlete triad, cardiovascular issues in athletes, hip injuries, and chronic medical conditions affecting athletic participation. Moreover, fellows will refine their skills in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and return-to-play criteria under the supervision of fellowship-trained physicians and experts in the field.

Collaborative learning is emphasized, with fellows working closely alongside other medical trainees from disciplines such as Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Orthopaedics. This interprofessional environment fosters a unique opportunity for shared learning and growth, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.1

Clinical Experience and Responsibilities

Throughout the fellowship year, participants will serve as team physicians for numerous athletic organizations, including local high schools and the University of New Mexico's Division I collegiate teams. Additionally, there may be opportunities to work with professional sports teams such as the Albuquerque Isotopes, which is a Triple-A baseball team. The role of a fellow also includes participating in special events and community health activities, such as rodeos and mass participation events, thereby enriching their clinical exposure.

Fellows will be actively involved in educating various stakeholders, including athletic trainers, coaches, and fellow residents, across multiple teaching settings. This reinforces the program's commitment to advanced learning and knowledge dissemination within the athletic and clinical communities.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship emphasizes a strong curriculum centered on practical sports medicine applications, including comprehensive evaluations and management of athletic injuries. A unique aspect of this program is the integration of exercise physiology, in which fellows are encouraged to develop their own exercise and fitness regimens, supported by the expertise of the staff at the UNM Human Performance Lab.1

Research Opportunities and Publications

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research activities during their tenure in the program. Collaborative projects with faculty and contributions towards scholarly publications in relevant sports medicine fields are highly encouraged. The program maintains a record of numerous publications emanating from past fellows, contributing to the vast body of knowledge within the field of sports medicine.1

Living in Albuquerque

Albuquerque proves to be an exceptional location for fellows, as it boasts a vibrant cultural heritage accentuated by scenic landscapes, including mountains and deserts. The climate offers year-round sunshine and opportunities for outdoor activities, fostering a lifestyle that prioritizes health and well-being.

As a part of the community, fellows will have access to various recreational pursuits and local attractions, such as the renowned Old Town Plaza and the International Balloon Fiesta, which highlights the city’s standing as the hot air ballooning capital of the world.1

Application Requirements

To be eligible for this fellowship, applicants must have completed an approved residency in Family Medicine or Emergency Medicine. International Medical Graduates are welcome to apply, provided they possess a valid ECFMG certificate by the time a New Mexico Medical License is obtained. The application process is competitive, with submissions made through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Additionally, the application includes a deadline and submission of specific documentation, such as letters of recommendation and personal statements.1

Visa Support

The program offers support for applicants requiring visa sponsorship. Specifically, the fellowship program can sponsor J-1 visas for international medical graduates. It is important for potential applicants to ensure they meet the necessary qualifications in order to apply and obtain the required medical licenses to practice in New Mexico.

Competitiveness

The Sports Medicine Fellowship program is regarded as highly competitive. The admissions process favors applicants who display strong clinical backgrounds, publications, and engagement in sports medicine-related experiences. The program encourages candidates from both DO and IMG backgrounds, ensuring inclusivity in its selection process.