Emory University School of Medicine Program
Location:
Atlanta, GASpecialty:
GastroenterologyACGME Code:
1441221136The Emory University School of Medicine Program in Gastroenterology, part of the Division of Digestive Diseases, offers an extensive gastroenterology fellowship program designed to prepare trainees for a career as independent, board-certified subspecialists. The program’s structure ensures that fellows receive thorough clinical and research training across various dimensions of digestive diseases while focusing on advanced care.
Fellowship Structure and Training
The fellowship comprises a three-year fully ACGME-accredited training program, accepting 5-6 fellows annually. Trainees will effectively become specialists in gastroenterology, gaining experience in both primary care and advanced techniques in sub-specialties such as hepatology and endoscopy through diverse clinical rotations performed across multiple hospitals.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows rotate through four primary teaching hospitals: Emory University Hospital, Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital. This multi-hospital approach allows fellows to manage a wide variety of gastrointestinal disorders while receiving mentorship from esteemed faculty members.6
At Grady Memorial Hospital, the inpatient and outpatient consultative services are provided by skilled GI faculty, enhancing fellows' exposure to complex cases. Emory University Hospital serves as a tertiary care center, where fellows engage in general gastroenterology and specific subspecialty clinics.8 The Atlanta VA Medical Center presents unique opportunities to serve veterans while participating in advanced endoscopic procedures under faculty supervision. Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital offers a comprehensive exposure to both general and advanced endoscopic techniques, fostering a broad clinical skill set.
Research Opportunities
The fellowship emphasizes research, allocating four to six months specifically dedicated to clinical research. Fellows get training in developing research projects from the ground up, including IRB approval and data analysis. Opportunities are available to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.7
Additional collaboration might occur with the Emory Digestive Disease Initiative, which connects researchers from various academic institutions to enhance clinical and translational research efforts in gastroenterology.14
Visa Support
The program supports J-1 visas for international applicants, making it accessible for a diverse group of fellows, including those from international medical backgrounds.11
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The fellowship is considered highly competitive, appealing to both Domestic and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Applicants to the program must hold an MD and be board-eligible in Internal Medicine. Additional requirements include detailed application materials such as USMLE score reports and letters of reference, focusing on strong academic achievements and clinical experience.9
Special Application Notes
The program is selective regarding the applicant's graduation year and failed USMLE Step attempts, reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards in academic and clinical excellence.10
Educational Environment
The program prides itself on a robust educational schedule with regular conferences, seminars, and mentorship opportunities tailored to enhance the learning experience of fellows. Weekly grand rounds allow fellows to present cases, share knowledge, and engage in discussions with faculty and peers, further enriching their education environment.5
Diversity and Inclusion
Emory's Division of Digestive Diseases promotes an inclusive environment through its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, which works on recruitment and educational initiatives geared towards cultural awareness and sensitivity in teaching.13
Unique Aspects of the Program
The fellowship encourages fellows to become proficient in advanced endoscopic techniques, including but not limited to ERCP, endoscopic ultrasound, and specialized procedures such as POEM and ESD.3 This unique training prepares graduates for not only clinical practice but also positions them to contribute significantly to the field through innovations in treatment approaches and techniques.
Overall, the Emory University School of Medicine gastroenterology fellowship program provides an integrated pathway to develop clinical, research, and educational skills, preparing fellows for proactive leadership roles in gastrointestinal health.
Website
Director
Saurabh Chawla, MBBSProfessor of Medicine Appointed Since July 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
42hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
13hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,649First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.9XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
Atlanta, GA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Atlanta, GA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Atlanta has some high-crime areas, but overall safety is similar to other major U.S. cities. It's recommended to be cautious and be aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Atlanta offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, parks, restaurants, and outdoor activities. You can enjoy the Georgia Aquarium, Piedmont Park, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
- Climate: Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and high humidity in the summer.
- Races and Population: Atlanta is a diverse city with a blend of different races and cultures. It has a significant African American population and a growing Hispanic community.
- Education: Atlanta is home to prestigious universities like Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, providing opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Atlanta is moderate compared to other major U.S. cities. Housing costs can vary based on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Atlanta is within driving distance to cities like Nashville, TN (about 3.5 hours), and Charlotte, NC (about 4 hours), offering weekend getaway options.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse population, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Some high-crime areas, hot and humid summers.
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