University of Tennessee College of Medicine at Chattanooga Program

Overview of the Fellowship Program

The University of Tennessee College of Medicine - Chattanooga offers a one-year ACGME-accredited Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship, commencing in July 2024. The program is backed by the Departments of Family Medicine and Orthopaedic Surgery, and is designed to train up to two fellows per year, focusing on comprehensive sports medicine and non-surgical orthopedics. The primary clinical training site is Erlanger Health and its dedicated Erlanger Sports Medicine Clinic, making it a robust environment for fellows to engage in a variety of clinical experiences and learning opportunities 1.

Fellowship Structure and Focus Areas

The fellowship is structured to provide fellows with intensive training in sports medicine, including opportunities to work with the University of Tennessee Chattanooga's sports medicine staff, and engage with high school athletes and mass athletic events. An emphasis is placed on treating both pediatric and adult patients, with a scope that encompasses combat sports, such as boxing and mixed martial arts 1.

Clinical Experiences

Fellows will gain experience in numerous clinical areas, including:

• Continued medical management of primary care needs for families.
• Non-operative orthopaedics and musculoskeletal injuries.
• Non-surgical treatment for neck and back conditions.
• Management of sports-related injuries and conditions such as exercise-induced asthma.
• Ultrasound-guided procedures and other minor office procedures.
• Concussion management and rehabilitation services in collaboration with physical therapists and athletic trainers 2.

Research and Community Involvement

Fellows will partake in a multi-disciplinary approach, learning to collaborate with athletic trainers, coaches, and community members on injury prevention education. This fellowship also emphasizes research, encouraging fellows to contribute to advancements in non-operative orthopaedics 1.

Application Requirements

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must have graduated from a three-year ACGME-accredited residency program in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics before July 1, 2025. Applicants are required to have passed the USMLE Steps 1, 2 CK, and CS, and additionally the Step 3 examination before starting the program. The application is processed through the AAMC's Electronic Application Service, with an application deadline typically around mid-November prior to the trading period 2.

Competitiveness and Selection

The fellowship is considered highly competitive, aiming for candidates who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to the field of sports medicine, and an eagerness to engage in a diverse range of clinical and research activities. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcome to apply, provided they meet the outlined qualifications 3.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for qualified international applicants. Typically, the two main visa types sponsored are the J-1 visa for international medical graduates and H-1B visas for those already in the U.S. Applicants should confirm specific details regarding visa sponsorship during their application process 4.

Benefits and Compensation

Selected fellows are compensated at the PGY-4 level, receiving benefits in accordance with UTHSC College of Medicine-Chattanooga policies. This includes coverage for health insurance, paid time off, and educational resources for conferences and workshops relevant to sports medicine 2.

Faculty and Mentorship

The program boasts a robust faculty, comprising experienced specialists in primary care, orthopaedics, neurology, and sports medicine. Faculty involvement is integral for fellows, as they receive mentorship in clinical practice and research that supports their professional development 3.

Living in Chattanooga

Chattanooga is noted for its vibrant community life and outdoor activities, providing fellows with ample opportunities for personal enjoyment beyond their training. The combination of natural beauty, including mountains and rivers, along with a rich cultural scene, makes it an appealing location 2.