George Washington University Program

The Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases at George Washington University offers a comprehensive three-year fellowship program aimed at educating fellows in the full spectrum of digestive diseases. This program is clinically focused, emphasizing evidence-based consultative care and the acquisition of advanced endoscopic skills, alongside essential training in clinical research.

Based in the vibrant and diverse environment of the Nation’s Capital, fellows encounter a wide range of patient experiences and cultures, enhancing their training through exposure to various digestive diseases. The program is anchored by dedicated faculty who foster a practice that emphasizes both competence and a humanistic approach to patient care.

Program Structure

Fellows predominantly spend their time at the George Washington University Hospital and the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Their training integrates clinical rotations, outpatient experiences, a dedicated mentorship program, and access to a state-of-the-art simulation skills lab.

During their fellowship, trainees will acquire the ability to perform diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures, analyze video capsule endoscopy results, and interpret high-definition esophageal manometry. They will have direct opportunities to work alongside skilled interventional endoscopists to learn advanced procedures such as ERCP, EUS, radio-frequency ablation, and endoscopic mucosal resection.

Clinical Rotations

The first year emphasizes inpatient gastroenterology consultations, primarily at GW Hospital, where fellows provide consultative services for patients with digestive and liver diseases. They participate in routine and urgent endoscopic procedures. The remaining months of the first year are dedicated to hepatology rotations at the VA Medical Center, encompassing both inpatient and outpatient experiences focused on hepatology.

In years two and three, fellows engage further in inpatient consultations, focusing on refining consultative care techniques and supervising junior fellows and residents. They will rotate through outpatient services, including specialty clinics for inflammatory bowel disease, and subspecialty rotations that enhance competencies in advanced procedures and testing.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship program is research-oriented, encouraging fellows to conduct scholarly activities under faculty supervision. Participants are exposed to both clinical and laboratory investigations aimed at improving therapies for various gastrointestinal conditions.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program’s emphasis on diversity fosters a well-rounded educational experience. Moreover, fellows are provided with comprehensive mentorship, allowing them to cultivate their professional interests in a supportive and dynamic academic environment.

Application Information

Applications for the fellowship are exclusively accepted through the Electronic Residency Applications Service (ERAS). Candidates must be board-certified or board-eligible after completing three years in an ACGME-Accredited Internal Medicine Residency. The application requires a completed myERAS application, a Curriculum Vitae, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation (including one from the residency program director), and USMLE scores with all steps passed prior to the fellowship year. An ECFMG Status Report is required for international medical graduates (IMGs), along with proof of completed ACGME-accredited residency.

International Medical Graduates must possess a J1 visa for consideration, as the program is unable to accept other visa types. The program is designed to accommodate candidates from diverse backgrounds including DO and IMG applicants, contributing to a competitive yet inclusive environment.

Visa and Competitiveness

The program is highly competitive and specifically seeks to support international medical graduates through its sponsorship of J1 visas, making it an IMG-friendly program.