Hackensack University Medical Center Program

The Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship Program at Hackensack University Medical Center is hosted within the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. The program is recognized for its excellence in clinical care and research, serving a diverse population throughout the tri-state area.

With a dedicated team of seven attending physicians, the program stands as the largest division of its kind in the region. Fellows in this program are exposed to a wide spectrum of rheumatologic diseases which equips them with the necessary skills to effectively recognize, diagnose, and treat these conditions. The mission of the fellowship is to nurture competent, confident, and empathetic pediatric rheumatologists who are committed to lifelong learning. This mission aims to better the lives of children afflicted by rheumatic diseases through a combination of practice, research, and education, while maintaining cultural and community considerations in patient care 1.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship lasts three years and includes a well-structured curriculum that integrates clinical care, evidence-based medicine, and research methodologies. The curriculum design allows fellows to engage in comprehensive instruction covering all essential aspects of pediatric rheumatology. Moreover, fellows will have access to a collaborative, workshop-based research course which focuses on various topics such as biostatistics, study design, grant writing, and ethical principles in clinical research 4.

Training in musculoskeletal ultrasound is a significant component of the fellowship, facilitated by USSONAR-trained pediatric rheumatologists. By the completion of the fellowship, each fellow is expected to independently perform and interpret complex musculoskeletal ultrasound scans. Furthermore, fellows are encouraged to attend and present at national conferences, increasing their exposure and professional development in the field 5.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship boasts extensive research opportunities, offering fellows participation in clinical, translational, and basic science research projects. The program collaborates with the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) and the Pediatric Rheumatology Care and Outcomes Improvement Network (PR-COIN). This collaboration provides a platform for fellows to develop their own quality improvement projects and become engaged with ongoing clinical research 4.

The Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) enhances the research environment with high-end facilities that include imaging capabilities, gene editing, and biocontainment labs. This environment supports fellows as they contribute to meaningful projects that span from bench research to bedside application 5.

Application Process

Qualified applicants who are passionate about pediatric rheumatology are encouraged to apply to the fellowship program through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Candidates who are selected for interviews will be notified via email 2.

Fellowship Life

Fellows enjoy a comprehensive and rewarding experience at Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health, benefiting from a large healthcare network that emphasizes academic achievement and community service. Hackensack University Medical Center is well-regarded for its support of teaching and has ranked among the top places to work in healthcare, providing an enriching environment for fellows 3.

In terms of location, the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital is conveniently situated near major highways and public transport options, making it accessible for fellows. The surrounding area offers numerous cultural activities, outdoor activities, shopping, and excellent school systems, enhancing the personal and professional quality of life during the fellowship.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program welcomes applications from international medical graduates (IMGs) and supports various visa types for foreign candidates. This commitment underscores the program's inclusivity and dedication to fostering diversity within its ranks. The fellowship is known to be competitive, attracting highly qualified candidates; however, it remains open to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DO graduates and IMGs.

Additional Requirements and Information

Interested applicants should be aware of any specific requirements unique to the fellowship, such as the timing of graduation and possible restrictions on previous examination attempts. Clear details regarding such application prerequisites can typically be found directly in the program's guidelines.