University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Program

Program Overview

The Sports Medicine Fellowship Program is a specialized training initiative, presented in collaboration between the McGovern Medical School’s Department of Family & Community Medicine and the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. This fellowship is designed to train future leaders in sports medicine, emphasizing comprehensive care for active individuals across diverse backgrounds and communities 1.

The program’s mission is rooted in providing quality care, equipping fellows with essential negotiation and administrative skills required for medical practice. This enables those in the program to manage teams effectively throughout their careers. Notably, fellows are taught to maintain dignity and respect for all patients, supporting a holistic approach that integrates physical, emotional, and community health 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship spans one year and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). It focuses on developing expertise through hands-on experience in various settings, including pre-participation physicals, treatment for acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries, and coverage of significant athletic events. Fellows are also trained in managing chronic diseases in athletes 4.

The program prepares fellows for the Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine, expanding their qualifications and scope of practice. In collaboration with faculty from the UT Physician and Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute, the curriculum offers practical exposure across diverse sports medicine disciplines 4.

Rotations and Training Sites

Throughout the fellowship, participants engage in longitudinal experiences in multiple clinics, particularly focusing on sports medicine, pediatrics, orthopedic care, and musculoskeletal radiology. The curriculum facilitates involvement in various educational activities, including regenerative medicine, rehabilitation, and exercise physiology 1. Additional experiences may include working with diverse healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, athletic trainers, and sports psychologists, further enhancing the learning environment 6.

Benefits and Support

Fellow compensation is competitive, with salaries positioned among the highest in Texas. For the academic years of 2024-2025, fellows will receive a salary of approximately $74,888.21, with a projected increase for the subsequent year 2. Benefits include comprehensive insurance coverage and allowances for maternity/paternity leave and sick time. All fellows are allocated three weeks of vacation, with an additional five days designated for educational meetings annually 2.

Application Process

To qualify for the fellowship, candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited Family Medicine Residency or equivalent Canadian programs (RCPSC or CFPC). Applicants are required to submit their documentation via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) 5. Additionally, it is imperative that all applicants pass each USMLE step within three attempts and fulfill board eligibility or certification requirements upon commencement of the fellowship. The program accepts ECFMG-sponsored J-1 clinical visas for international medical graduates but does not accommodate H-1B visa applicants 5.

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

The Sports Medicine Fellowship Program is notably competitive, attracting a diverse range of candidates. Critical evaluation factors include academic performance, commitment to sports medicine, communication skills, leadership potential, and overall preparedness for specialization in the field 5. It is essential that applicants are aware of the program’s commitment to equality, refraining from discrimination based on age, race, religion, or other personal attributes 5.

Program Faculty

The fellowship is overseen by a dedicated faculty comprising specialists across various disciplines in sports medicine. Faculty members are prominent figures in orthopedics and family medicine, offering a wealth of knowledge and mentorship to the fellows 7. This diverse expertise enriches the fellowship experience, fostering a robust learning environment where fellows can thrive.