Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine is a three-year ACGME-accredited program that provides comprehensive training designed to produce exceptional gastroenterologists. The fellowship combines rigorous clinical training, research opportunities, and mentorship to maximize the fellows' professional potential while emphasizing core values such as diversity, equity, and inclusion. Former alumni have successfully ascended to leadership roles within academic medical centers and thriving practices across Indiana and beyond 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum encompasses 18 months of intensive clinical training covering gastrointestinal, pancreaticobiliary, and liver diseases, along with a minimum of five months dedicated to faculty-mentored research. The extensive endoscopic training, which includes various elective experiences in specialized areas such as gastrointestinal motility, endoscopic ultrasound, and pediatric gastroenterology, ensures that fellows receive well-rounded exposure to their field 1.

Inpatient Experience

Fellows train at several key teaching hospitals on the IU School of Medicine - Indianapolis campus, namely Indiana University Health, Eskenazi Health, and the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center. This arrangement allows fellows to cultivate skills in both inpatient and outpatient settings while providing consultative care and endoscopy 1.

Outpatient Experience

Fellows also benefit from continuity clinic experiences, where they can engage with diverse patient populations and various gastrointestinal disorders, fostering real-world practice settings and integrating their clinical knowledge 1.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship offers numerous avenues for clinical or basic research under the guidance of a robust team of over 40 faculty members. Fellows can engage in translational studies, clinical trials, or bench research tailored to their interests and career aspirations. A specialized four-year clinical investigator track is also available for fellows keen on pursuing an academic career, enabling them to dedicate even more time to research 1.

Application Process

The program offers five fellowship positions annually, and applicants must have completed or be currently enrolled in an ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency. The program seeks candidates who exhibit strong clinical knowledge and a commitment to gastroenterology. The fellowship provides sponsorship for J1 visas, which is crucial for international applicants 3.

Program Competitiveness

This fellowship is highly competitive, attracting a large pool of applicants, including international medical graduates (IMGs) and Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) candidates. The program’s well-rounded reputation and comprehensive training make it an appealing choice for aspiring gastroenterologists 2.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Fellows benefit from vibrant mentorship, extensive networking opportunities, and access to a supportive community of faculty and peers. The fellowship includes wellness initiatives, organized events, and a commitment to a healthy work-life balance. The training facilities being some of the highest-volume centers for procedures such as Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) enhances fellows' procedural competency from early in their training 1.

Training Sites

The fellowship utilizes multiple distinguished training hospitals within the downtown Indianapolis area, allowing fellows to experience varied patient populations and clinical cases. This includes the tertiary care center at IU Health, the diverse safety net provided by Eskenazi Health, and unique experiences at the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center 4.

Supportive Environment

The program emphasizes a culture of mentorship and collaboration, fostering strong relationships among fellows and faculty alike. Whether discussing clinical cases or personal milestones, fellows gain invaluable support during their training, enhancing their overall experience 4.