Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

Program Overview

The Infectious Disease Fellowship at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) is designed to prepare internists for a career in the diverse and complex field of infectious diseases. The fellowship program benefits from the expertise of a dedicated team of 12 faculty members and over 20 additional staff, including fellows, nurses, and research technicians. The program is structured to offer clinical, teaching, and research opportunities in both domestic and international health contexts.

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum emphasizes a thorough understanding of infections in both adult and pediatric populations. Trainees engage in a variety of patient consultations addressing a spectrum of infectious diseases, including chronic and unusual infections, antibiotic-resistant conditions, and tropical diseases. Fellows participate in the Comprehensive Antibiotic Program (CAP) which aims to optimize antibiotic usage and combat resistance.

Another focal point of the training is infectious disease consultations, allowing fellows to work directly with patients exhibiting complex conditions such as endocarditis, tuberculosis, and Lyme disease. The program also runs internationally-relevant training through partnered clinics, offering fellows hands-on experience in global health matters.

Clinical Rotations

Rotational training occurs at various clinics, including the Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinics in Concord and Lebanon, New Hampshire. These clinics feature specialized programs such as Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Treatment (OPAT), International Travel Clinics, and a Regional HIV Program, providing exposure across different settings of infectious disease practice.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship program at DHMC. The institution supports various clinical trials and studies aimed at advancing knowledge and treatment in infectious diseases. Research topics range from tuberculosis vaccine development to environmental health studies related to cancer epidemiology.

Significant ongoing research projects include the DARDAR Pediatric Program in Tanzania, focusing on HIV treatment for children, and investigations into antimicrobial resistance and novel antibiotic therapies. Fellows have the opportunity to participate in these innovative research projects, enhancing their clinical training with a strong foundation in scientific inquiry.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The DHMC Infectious Disease Fellowship highlights a multidisciplinary approach, particularly through the Post-Acute COVID Syndrome Clinic, where specialties such as neurology, pulmonary medicine, and psychiatry contribute to comprehensive patient care for long COVID patients. This integrated model prepares fellows for collaborative work in both clinical and research settings.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is committed to fostering a diverse trainee population and actively provides visa support for international medical graduates. The institution typically sponsors J-1 visas, which allow for training in the United States. The program is generally considered competitive, welcoming a range of applicants, including osteopathic (DO) and international medical graduates (IMGs).

Application Requirements

While specific requirements may vary, applicants are generally expected to meet criteria such as obtaining their medical degree within a certain number of years prior to application and having limited failed attempts on USMLE exams. Prospective candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in infectious diseases and possess a solid foundation in internal medicine.

Patient Education and Support Services

The educational component is integral to the program, emphasizing the need for patient support and education. Fellows engage in teaching patients about preventive care, travel health safety, and the importance of vaccinations during outpatient consultations. Resources for ongoing patient education are readily available through the program’s website and consultations.