Albany Medical Center Program
Location:
Albany, NYSpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1503531020The Rheumatology Fellowship program at Albany Medical College is a two-year, ACGME-accredited fellowship designed to offer extensive clinical training and promote research opportunities for fellows. The program aims to equip fellows with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field of rheumatology. The curriculum includes a comprehensive review of musculoskeletal functional anatomy and an immunology course conducted alongside PhD candidates from the Department of Immunology. Moreover, fellows are integrated into a cutting-edge patient care practice, allowing them to work closely with leading regional providers and advanced technology within various specialties including Intensive Care Units, Apheresis-Dialysis Units, and multiple interventional services.
As the only academic medical health system in the Capital Region, the program provides a diverse patient care experience critical for effective training. The fellowship involves rotations through outpatient continuity clinics and pediatric rheumatology clinics, enhancing practical patient care skills. These rotations allow fellows to manage a variety of rheumatic diseases, gain nuanced insights through inpatient consultations, and participate in scholarly activities, ensuring a robust educational experience throughout the fellowship.
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Program Structure
The program's structure emphasizes high-quality clinical training complemented by academic rigor. Fellows participate in multiple scholarly activities and interdisciplinary conferences. Collaboration occurs with various divisions, including Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine as well as Pathology, promoting a comprehensive educational environment. Furthermore, the program actively encourages participation in regional and national meetings, thus fostering professional development and networking.
Albany Medical Center, the central institution for the Albany Med Health System, is one of New York State's largest teaching hospitals. This environment exposes fellows to a wide array of clinical care experiences, from routine preventative care to complex surgical interventions.
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Curriculum Details
The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover essential rheumatology topics. Key components include:
Continuity Clinic
Fellows gain extensive experience in diagnosing and managing a wide spectrum of rheumatologic conditions through a busy outpatient clinic. Here, they enhance their medical knowledge, focusing on the longitudinal care of patients, disease flare management, and monitoring for common complications. A noteworthy aspect is the large intake of patients referred from a considerable catchment area, ensuring exposure to serious rheumatologic conditions.
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Inpatient Consultations
This aspect of the program is aimed at providing fellows with a rich education in evaluating and treating patients in varying states of illness, from moderately ill to critically ill. Close supervision by experienced rheumatologists aids fellows in refining their clinical skills in patient care.
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Research Opportunities
The program promotes research through affiliation with the Scleroderma Foundation, providing fellows with access to one of the largest scleroderma databases in upstate New York. Research opportunities cross-collaborate with the Department of Immunology and Microbial Disease. Various avenues for case reports and presentations enhance the academic rigor of the fellowship.
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Application Process
Candidates applying for the Rheumatology Fellowship must have completed an ACGME-approved Internal Medicine residency and meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
- US Citizenship, Green Card, EAD, or J1 Visa sponsorship.
- Strong academic background, including a minimum score of 220 on the first attempt at USMLE Steps I, II, and III.
- Previous experience in rheumatology, such as electives or research.
- Application via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
The application process requires submission of several documents including a CV, personal statement, medical school transcript, and letters of recommendation.
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Competitiveness and Support
This program is highly competitive due to its robust training structure and excellent clinical opportunities. The program has provisions for sponsorship, including J1 visas, which promotes a diverse fellowship cohort. This sponsorship aims to attract capable international medical graduates (IMGs), ensuring a welcoming environment for applicants seeking to specialize in rheumatology.
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Website
Director
Khoa H Ngo, DOProgram Director, Assistant Professor of Medicine Appointed Since January 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,016First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
2Location
Albany, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
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Living in Albany, NY
Albany, NY, the state capital of New York, offers a diverse and vibrant living experience.
- Crime Rate and Safety: Albany has a slightly higher crime rate compared to the national average, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings. However, there are safe neighborhoods within the city.
- Fun Activities: The city has a rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and parks. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the nearby Adirondack Mountains.
- Climate: Albany experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Albany has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, creating a multicultural environment.
- Education: Albany is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for lifelong learning and cultural enrichment.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Albany is moderate compared to other cities on the East Coast, making it a more affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Albany is located about 2.5 hours from New York City by car, making it feasible for day trips or weekend getaways to the bustling metropolis.
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