Program Review
Staff / Faculty / Chairman
Staff are variable. There were some that didn't let the seniors do anything. At least as a med student, I got to pull traction. Chairman is nice enough, but even after a few minutes of meeting him, you can imagine how he is when he's pissed off. Limited number of faculty in the different subspecialties.
Didactics / Teaching
When I was there it was ok. Not a lot of conference which some people like.
Operating Experience
Again, it seemed variable. The main hospital as a whole was kind of third world. Not sure what their numbers are, but turnover time on average was measured in hours. They have at least two other hospitals in the county where they rotate--its probably better there. The program also seems trauma heavy.
Clinic Experience
Only went once the month I was on. It wasn't connected to the rest of the hospital, but the facilities were nice.
Research Opportunities
The opportunities better be good. You get an entire extra year dedicated to it.
Residents
Very agreeable group.
Lifestyle
Busy, like most programs. But I was told they are fairly compliant with 80 hours.
Location / Housing
St. Louis is a patchy town. Lots of gun and knife club patients from the surrounding neighborhoods. There are other areas that are very nice and affordable.
Limitations
The program director has been very receptive to the needs of the program, as you can see above. In one year, we have addressed many of the shortcomings noted in the previous review. While this program, like all, has areas that can be improved, it is obvious that the administration behind the University of Florida program is committed to addressing those deficiencies quickly.
Overall Rotation Experience / Conclusion
Felt like the overall educational experience was adequate, but not great. The main hospital is definitely a drawback to the program. The new chairman is still planning on making the program bigger. Eventually, it may be a great program, but still one that will always live in the shadow of the institution down the street. Six years kind of sucks.
