Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program in Gastroenterology, located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, provides a robust and comprehensive fellowship training experience for aspiring gastroenterologists. This program is committed to delivering high-quality clinical education through a diverse curriculum, access to advanced training sites, and opportunities for specialized research.

Curriculum Overview

The program's curriculum is designed to equip fellows with comprehensive knowledge and skills in gastroenterology, incorporating clinical practice, procedural training, and academic research. Fellows participate in a range of clinical rotations that include the Comprehensive GI Program, Endoscopy Program, and specialized areas like Hepatology, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and Pancreaticobiliary diseases. Each rotation is structured to enable fellows to gain hands-on experience in diagnosis, management, and treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders.

Alongside clinical training, fellows engage in didactic sessions, case discussions, and journal clubs that encourage critical thinking and keep them abreast of the latest advancements in the field.

Rotations and Training Sites

Fellows at this program have the opportunity to work within multiple specialized training sites. The academic training is primarily conducted at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, which is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Within the training sites, fellows will have exposure to a wide variety of cases that cover:

• Advanced therapeutic endoscopy
• Liver diseases and transplant evaluations
• Motility disorders
• Colorectal cancer screenings
• Upper and lower GI surgeries

This breadth of experience ensures fellows are well-prepared for clinical practice or further specialization.

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on research, encouraging fellows to participate in ongoing clinical trials and projects within the Gastroenterology and Hepatology division. There are opportunities to engage in translational research, particularly within inflammatory bowel disease and pancreatic disorders, allowing fellows to contribute to advancing knowledge in these areas. The program actively promotes scholarly activity, with the expectation for fellows to present research findings at national meetings and participate in publications.

Fellows also collaborate with faculty members and gain mentorship that supports their research interests and career development.

Unique Aspects

One of the distinctive features of the program is its integrated approach to gastroenterology training that includes a focus on behavioral health. The Gastrointestinal Behavioral Health team provides support for fellows to understand the psychosocial aspects of patient care, enhancing their ability to treat conditions influenced by emotional and psychological factors.

Moreover, the program promotes a multidisciplinary team approach in various subspecialty clinics, facilitating a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with complex gastrointestinal conditions.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program provides visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) through sponsorship of J-1 and H-1B visas. This commitment aims to foster a diverse educational environment and attract qualified individuals globally.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Dartmouth-Hitchcock Gastroenterology fellowship is considered competitive, with a focus on identifying candidates who demonstrate excellence in clinical skills, research involvement, and a commitment to the field. Applicants should be aware that the program favors those with a solid foundation in internal medicine, and they look for specific metrics, such as completion of a three-year ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency.

Additional application requirements may include limitations on the number of failed Step exams, which are assessed on a case-by-case basis. The program favors applicants who have graduated from medical school within a certain time frame, typically within the past five years.

Conclusion

With a comprehensive curriculum, diverse training rotations, strong research support, and a commitment to fostering a diverse environment, the Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program in Gastroenterology stands out as an exemplary training ground for future leaders in gastroenterology and hepatology.