Boston University Medical Center Program

The Infectious Disease Fellowship Program at Boston University Medical Center offers a comprehensive training experience designed to prepare fellows for careers in infectious diseases through exposure to a diverse patient population and a wide range of clinical and research opportunities.

Program Features

The fellowship program is committed to developing expert practitioners who understand the complexities of healthcare for underserved populations. Our fellows commonly engage in the management of infectious diseases in patients from diverse backgrounds, including marginalized communities, refugees, and individuals affected by substance use. This unique focus allows fellows to gain experience managing diseases not typically encountered in other training programs, including tropical diseases, tuberculosis, and HIV-related complications 1.

The program enhances its strength through various research initiatives. Fellows are encouraged to contribute to projects in core areas such as HIV, hepatitis C, and infections linked with substance use disorders, as well as antimicrobial stewardship 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship consists of two primary years of clinical training, with opportunities for an optional third year dedicated to research efforts. Initial training includes a four-week rotation in the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, equipping fellows with essential microbiological skills followed by extensive clinical involvements across multiple services, including those at Boston Medical Center and the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System 8.

During the first year, fellows will manage inpatient consultations and also begin longitudinal outpatient care experiences through the Center for Infectious Diseases and various specialty clinics, including HIV and tropical medicine 8. In the second year, research becomes a significant focus, where fellows participate in extensive scholarly projects often leading to peer-reviewed publications 9.

Ambulatory Training Experience

A crucial part of the curriculum includes the longitudinal continuity clinic, which allows fellows to develop patient panels and manage chronic infectious diseases, particularly in high-risk populations 2. The ambulatory experience enriches the fellows’ training through exposure to a variety of patient cases and direct mentorship from attending physicians.

Research Training

The program emphasizes research training, providing fellows with the option to partake in a third year devoted to focused research initiatives. With approximately $27 million in research funding at Boston Medical Center, the department supports a multitude of research opportunities, especially in areas that target significant health disparities affecting urban populations 7.

Conferences and Professional Development

Regular conferences are a hallmark of the educational framework. Weekly and monthly meetings, such as grand rounds, journal clubs, and case presentations encourage collaborative learning among fellows and faculty, fostering an environment of academic excellence 5. Professional development initiatives, mentorship programs, and opportunities for teaching enhance the fellows’ clinical and educational competencies.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program provides fellows with multiple unique opportunities, such as international electives and participation in innovative programs addressing addiction and infectious diseases 3. Exposure to the National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory enhances research capabilities, along with affiliations with multiple international health organizations that promote global health exposure 1.

Application Process and Competitiveness

Fellowship applicants must have completed at least two years of residency in internal medicine at an ACGME-accredited program to be considered. The program is particularly supportive of candidates from diverse backgrounds and aims to reflect the community it serves. Thus, the program is not only competitive but also promotes inclusivity and mentorship for under-represented groups 8.

The selection process allows for international medical graduates to apply as long as they meet specific requirements such as ECFMG certification. Visa sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas is available, ensuring that qualified candidates can join the fellowship, regardless of their background 10.

Living in Boston

The Boston area serves not just as a hub for medical education but also provides a vibrant cultural setting for its residents. With a variety of universities, a rich history, and abundant recreational opportunities, Boston is ideal for both professional development and personal enrichment 6.

Choosing the Infectious Disease Fellowship Program at Boston University Medical Center will equip fellows with the skills, training, and cultural competence necessary to make significant contributions in the field of infectious diseases, particularly in addressing the needs of underserved populations.