Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Transplant Hepatology Fellowship Program at Emory University School of Medicine is designed to train physicians to become proficient academic pediatric transplant hepatologists. The program emphasizes clinical and educational experiences that align with the overall mission of Emory University School of Medicine, providing fellows with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their field.

The fellowship spans a 12-month period, integrating sufficient clinical exposure, formal curriculum, and ample faculty supervision, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for a career in pediatric transplant hepatology. The program features a patient volume that allows for extensive clinical practice and experiential learning relevant to the complexities of liver diseases in children.

Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must complete an application through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). An applicant must have successfully completed an accredited three-year pediatric residency by the start of the fellowship. The application file should encompass several essential documents:

• Completed application form (including J1 and H1B visa types)
• Current curriculum vitae
• Personal statement detailing prior research and clinical experience, motivations for pursuing the fellowship, and career aspirations
• Three letters of reference; one must be from the Residency Training Program Director
• Final Resident Evaluation / Milestone Evaluation
• USMLE Score Reports
• Official Medical School Transcript and Diploma
• ECFMG report (if applicable)
• A recent photograph

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum encompasses various clinical experiences:

Inpatient Hepatology Rotation (6-9 months)

During the inpatient hepatology rotation, the fellow primarily engages with acute and chronic liver disease across different settings. This rotation allows fellows to manage decompensated cirrhosis, acute on chronic liver failure, and provide consultative services alongside transplant surgeons and intensivists.

Outpatient Hepatology Clinics (6 months)

Fellows participate in outpatient clinics focusing on general hepatology. This includes managing conditions such as viral hepatitis, metabolic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), autoimmune hepatitis, and hepatic cancers.

Transplant Continuity Clinic (weekly throughout the fellowship)

Fellows attend transplant clinics weekly, addressing the ongoing health care needs of liver transplant recipients. This multidisciplinary approach includes collaboration with various allied health professionals involved in transplant care.

Research Rotation

Although the fellowship emphasizes clinical training, a minimum of two months is allotted for research development. Fellows are encouraged to initiate their research projects prior to beginning the program, with faculty mentorship available in multiple hepatology research areas.

Academic Conferences (weekly throughout fellowship)

Regular participation in clinical and academic conferences is integral to the program, including case presentations and journal clubs. The division conducts academic conferences weekly, where fellows are expected to actively contribute.

Unique Program Attributes

Emory University is recognized as one of the leading pediatric hospitals in the nation, highlighted by multiple national rankings. The program is situated in Atlanta, a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity and affordable living.

Library and Research Facilities

Fellows have access to extensive library facilities, including the Emory University Medical Library and resources at the Children’s Hospital, which provides a comprehensive selection of medical literature and journals relevant to pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology.

Fellow Responsibilities

Fellows act in a consulting and attending capacity, transitioning from their role as residents and therefore gaining invaluable skills in patient management and professional interactions. The fellowship experience is structured to foster independence while ensuring collaborative learning with peers and attending faculty.

With a robust framework of clinical exposure and academic development, the Pediatric Transplant Hepatology Fellowship at Emory University equips the next generation of pediatric hepatologists with the tools required to make significant contributions to the field.