Baylor College of Medicine (San Antonio) Program

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in San Antonio offers a unique and comprehensive training program designed to cultivate the skills necessary for future pediatric gastroenterologists. It is the first program of its kind in San Antonio and is distinguished by its small size, allowing for a personalized training experience.1

Program Overview

The fellowship comprises a total of 36 months, split evenly between clinical and research training. This structure ensures that fellows develop a robust skill set that includes clinical service, teaching, and research. Clinical training occurs at CHRISTUS Children’s, where fellows have access to a large, diverse patient population, providing exposure to a broad spectrum of pediatric gastrointestinal pathologies.1

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed in alignment with the guidelines set by the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. The first half of the fellowship primarily revolves around clinical training, with the second half emphasizing research and teaching responsibilities. This balance prepares fellows for both clinical practice and academic positions in pediatric gastroenterology.3

Over the course of the fellowship, second- and third-year fellows participate in various didactics including weekly conferences, morning reports, and grand rounds. Monthly activities such as Journal Club and Janus Rounds further enhance the educational experience. Through these sessions, fellows gain experience in teaching medical students and residents, as well as presenting at clinical case conferences.3

In addition, the program includes a one-month Pediatric Transplant Hepatology Rotation at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. This facilitates exposure to transplant hepatology, complementing the rest of the fellowship training.3

Fellowship Admissions

To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must have completed three years of ACGME-accredited residency training in pediatrics. Additionally, candidates must be board certified or board eligible in pediatrics from the American Board of Pediatrics. The program selects one fellow per year, maintaining a close-knit training environment with a total of three fellows at any given time.2

The program also supports fellows in pursuing various research interests through the Max and Minnie Tomerlin Voelcker Clinical Research Center and collaborations with the Texas Medical Center.1

Visa Support

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship program is supportive of international applicants and provides visa sponsorship opportunities. This typically includes H-1B and J-1 visa types, allowing international medical graduates (IMGs) to apply and train within the program. This inclusivity helps foster a diverse learning environment that benefits all trainees.2

Research Opportunities

Research training is a vital component of the experience offered by the fellowship. Under the guidance of the director of research, each fellow is encouraged to pursue a research project that aligns with their interests, supported by experienced faculty mentors. Notable projects may receive co-authorship opportunities on publications, enhancing the fellows' academic profiles post-fellowship.3

Competitiveness and Diversity

While the fellowship is competitive, it remains accessible for DO graduates and IMGs, thanks to its supportive and inclusive nature. The program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of its operations, enriching the educational experience for all trainees.4

Living in San Antonio

Fellows appreciate the vibrancy of San Antonio as a place to live, work, and study. The city offers a rich cultural scene, diverse culinary options, and various recreational activities, making it a favorable location for personal and professional development.2

The fellowship’s thoughtful design, coupled with its community focus, positions Baylor College of Medicine’s Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship as a standout program for aspiring pediatric gastroenterologists.