Corewell Health (Farmington Hills) Program

The Gastroenterology Fellowship at Corewell Health Farmington Hills Hospital is structured as a three-year comprehensive training program committed to equipping fellows with the necessary skills for a successful career in gastroenterology, primarily in community settings. The core focus is on enhancing consultative and endoscopic competencies, ensuring fellows are equipped to handle a wide range of gastrointestinal issues.

The fellowship encompasses extensive training in various endoscopic procedures, including but not limited to diagnostic endoscopy, therapeutic endoscopy, ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), esophageal manometry, and endoscopic ultrasound. It is imperative that fellows participate in quality improvement research projects, where they are expected to present their findings at both regional and national meetings, as well as contribute to publications, enhancing their academic and research credentials within the field of gastroenterology 1.

Program Structure and Rotations

This fellowship program has approved six fellow positions, with two new fellows being accepted each year. The interview process runs from July through November. The curriculum is designed to allow fellows to perform over 1,500 procedures throughout their fellowship. Its affiliation with institutions such as Henry Ford Hospital, Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, and DMC Huron Valley Hospital significantly enriches the learning experience, offering comprehensive exposure to hepatology, inflammatory bowel disease, and advanced endoscopy 1.

Furthermore, the fellowship prepares graduates for board eligibility in gastroenterology, with training that includes management of liver disease and gastrointestinal disorders while fostering a strong understanding of pathophysiology.

Diversity and Community Engagement

Located in Southern Oakland County, the fellowship provides exceptional opportunities for fellows to engage with a diverse patient population, addressing various medical conditions, particularly those prevalent among underserved communities. This exposure is critical in training clinicians to provide patient- and family-centered care while upholding the values of community service 2.

Curriculum Details

The curriculum covers all facets of clinical gastroenterology, allowing fellows to gain proficiency in gastroenterologic diagnosis and therapeutic procedures. It includes rotations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Advanced Endoscopy, Manometry, and clinical nutrition, along with regular clinic attendance—a half-day clinic weekly—for hands-on patient interactions. This extensive clinical exposure is crucial for developing a true understanding of patient management strategies 3.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship is supported by a robust faculty team comprised of board-certified gastroenterologists who are committed to the educational development of the fellows. Instruction is customized to maximize the learning potential through direct mentorship. The program director and an executive committee manage the educational strategies, ensuring high-quality training across all aspects of gastroenterology 4.

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants seeking to join the Gastroenterology Fellowship must hold a completed ACGME-accredited residency or acceptable equivalent, such as AOA-approved residencies. An application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) is required, including three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and transcripts from USMLE. The program is highly competitive, and candidates are encouraged to be well-prepared for the application process 5.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the fellowship program provides support for J-1 Visa sponsorship, which is critical for candidates who require immigration assistance to participate in the fellowship.

Benefits and Resources

Fellows receive a competitive salary and benefits package, including access to a vast array of educational resources, library services, and funding for attendance at relevant conference and workshops. Membership in leading gastroenterological societies is also provided, enhancing networking opportunities and access to the latest research findings in the field 2.