Howard University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolismACGME Code:
1431021107Overview of the Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Program
The program in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at Howard University offers comprehensive medical training aimed at developing future leaders in endocrine care and research. The program's focus is on providing an in-depth understanding of the complexities of diabetes as well as other endocrine disorders, with an emphasis on patient-centered care and research opportunities.
The program is associated with the Howard University Hospital Diabetes Treatment Center, which is recognized for its advanced patient care and clinical outcomes in managing diabetes and related conditions. The center provides a multidisciplinary approach that includes endocrinologists, diabetes educators, nutritionists, and pharmacists working together for comprehensive patient management 1.
Curriculum and Training
The curriculum is designed to expose trainees to all aspects of diabetes and endocrine disorders. This includes rotations through various subspecialties of endocrinology where fellows engage in direct patient care, participate in diagnostics, therapeutics, and management decisions. The rotations encompass clinical training in both outpatient and inpatient settings, allowing for an immersive learning experience.
During the training period, fellows are also required to engage in scholarly activity which includes participating in research and contributing to scientific literature. This is complemented by supervised clinical practice, where fellows receive mentorship from experienced faculty members who are leading experts in endocrinology.
Clinical Rotations
Clinical exposure is a cornerstone of the training program. Fellows rotate through the Diabetes Treatment Center, where they are involved in managing complex cases of diabetes and related metabolic disorders 2. Additional rotations may include specializing in areas such as thyroid disorders, adrenal dysfunctions, pituitary disorders, and reproductive endocrinology. This comprehensive exposure ensures that fellows gain robust clinical judgment and practical skills necessary for effectively managing endocrine disorders.
Research Opportunities
The program supports research initiatives in diabetes treatment, management, and education. Fellows are encouraged to engage in clinical research projects, often leading to valuable publications and presentations at national conferences. Collaborations with various health partners enhance the research environment and may offer fellows further opportunities for interdisciplinary work 3.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program emphasizes the importance of cultural competency, particularly given the historical lack of health education and resources in underserved communities. This highlights the necessity for sensitivity in managing patients with diabetes, particularly those from low-income backgrounds 1.
The center is accredited by numerous organizations, showcasing its commitment to quality in diabetes care. These accreditations ensure that the program remains at the forefront of diabetes treatment and education, integrating the latest evidence-based practices into its training and patient care protocols.
Training Sites
Howard University Hospital serves as the primary training site, providing state-of-the-art facilities and resources for fellow training. The collaborative setting allows for a team-based approach in treating diabetes and other endocrine disorders, promoting comprehensive patient management strategies. Adjacent healthcare facilities and community partnerships extend learning opportunities beyond the hospital walls, allowing fellows to experience diverse patient populations.
Visa Support
The program supports Visa candidates and offers sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas. This allows international medical graduates to apply to the fellowship program and take advantage of the training offered. Detailed support is provided to ensure that all requirements for visa sponsorship are met.
Competitiveness
The fellowship program is competitive, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds, including international medical graduates (IMGs) and Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) graduates. Aspiring fellows should be aware that meeting the application prerequisites and having a solid clinical foundation will be advantageous for a successful application.
Application Requirements
Applicants typically must hold an M.D. or D.O. degree and should have completed a residency in Internal Medicine or Pediatrics. Consideration may be given to those who have not exceeded the quota for failed STEP exams, and recent graduates are highly encouraged to apply 2.
The program also accepts applications from individuals who have recently graduated or are currently in a residency, ensuring a diverse cohort of fellows. Successful applicants need to demonstrate both a commitment to endocrinology and a passion for improving patient care and education.
Website
Director
Wolali A Odonkor, MDProgram Director, Associate Professor Appointed Since May 2009 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,500First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.8XResidents 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.
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