George Washington University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
NephrologyACGME Code:
1481021095Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the George Washington University (GWU) Nephrology Fellowship Program specializes in comprehensive training and education of nephrology fellows. The program is affiliated with the George Washington University Hospital and the Washington D.C. Veterans Affairs Medical Center, offering a rich exposure to diverse clinical environments and a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster expertise in kidney disease and hypertension.
The curriculum spans a 24-month period, during which fellows receive extensive training in various aspects of nephrology. Rotations are designed to instill not only clinical knowledge but also practical skills required for managing conditions such as acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, glomerular diseases, and electrolyte disorders. The GW Nephrology Fellowship stands out for its strong emphasis on hands-on experience with extracorporeal therapies including Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT), plasmapheresis, and advanced dialysis techniques.
Training Sites
The primary training sites include:
George Washington University Hospital
This 385-bed tertiary care facility serves as the main clinical site for nephrology fellows. It offers comprehensive nephrology services, including cutting-edge treatments for complex acute kidney injury and a robust kidney transplant program. Facilities for dialysis therapies including conventional, extended, and peritoneal dialysis are prominently featured. Additionally, fellows gain invaluable exposure through collaboration with interventional radiologists and urologists, focusing on management in nephro-urological cases.
Washington D.C. Veterans Affairs Medical Center
This facility is a Level 1A healthcare provider for veterans, offering a wide range of nephrology services. The DC VA has a specialized nephrology section with dedicated nephrologists who provide both inpatient and outpatient care, including dialysis services, chronic kidney disease management, and comprehensive care for kidney transplant recipients.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The GW Nephrology Fellowship uniquely positions fellows to benefit from collaborations with the National Institute of Health (NIH), where they can learn from leading experts in rare kidney diseases, onco-nephrology, and cutting-edge experimental therapies. Educational sessions at the NIH provide vital exposure to a rich array of research and specialized knowledge.
The program's commitment to diverse clinical training experiences allows fellows to engage with a broad spectrum of cases, including management of polycystic kidney disease and complex hypertension. This broad focus ensures that fellows develop well-rounded expertise which prepares them for various career paths in nephrology, whether in academic, clinical, or interdisciplinary settings.
Research and Professional Development
Research is an integral component of the fellowship. Trainees are encouraged to critically appraise literature and engage in research projects, enhancing their understanding of evidence-based medicine. Structured conferences throughout the year facilitate discussions on intriguing clinical cases, emerging clinical skills, and practical procedural training.
Application Requirements
The GW Nephrology Fellowship is highly competitive, and applicants must fulfill specific criteria. Candidates are required to have completed three years of an ACGME-accredited Internal Medicine residency and be board-certified or board-eligible. For international medical graduates (IMGs), certification by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and J1 visa sponsorship is mandatory.
Moreover, a complete application through the myERAS system includes a curriculum vitae, personal statement, three letters of recommendation (one from the program director), USMLE or COMLEX scores (passing all Steps must be achieved prior to the start of the fellowship), and a Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE).
Visa Support
The program exclusively sponsors J1 visas for international medical graduates. This facilitates participation by foreign candidates who have completed an ACGME-accredited residency program.
Competitiveness and Inclusivity
The Nephrology Fellowship at GW is noted for its competitiveness, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds, including those from DO and international medical graduate communities, which enhances the program's cultural richness and academic environment.
With a dedicated focus on fostering a supportive and diverse learning environment, the fellowship program ensures that graduates are not only clinically competent but are also wholly prepared for the varied challenges of modern nephrology.
Website
Director
Ehsan Nobakht Haghighi, MDAssociate Professor of Medicine Appointed Since March 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
51hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,936First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
