Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV Program

The Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Fellowship at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV is a meticulously structured, accredited program recognized by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This fellowship aims to cultivate proficiency in managing a wide array of endocrine disorders, providing comprehensive training that prepares graduates to be independent practitioners in the field.

Training Goals

The primary objectives of the fellowship include:

• Preparing physicians who will meet the certification requirements set forth by the American Board of Internal Medicine in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism.
• Delivering evidence-based training that results in well-rounded endocrinologists capable of handling both clinical practice and scholarly activities.
• Encouraging fellows to manage complex endocrine issues, enhancing their clinical judgment and decision-making skills.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship program spans over 24 months, emphasizing graduated learning experiences where fellows progressively gain independence and responsibility. The educational activities engage fellows through:

• Inpatient and outpatient rotations at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada and the UNLV Health Endocrinology Clinic.
• Hands-on experience with diverse patient populations and a variety of endocrine disorders including Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, thyroid disorders, and adrenal disorders.
• Opportunities for research, with a formal research rotation scheduled for the second year.

Rotational Experiences

The fellowship includes critical rotations at:

• University Medical Center (UMC): As the major teaching hospital, UMC offers extensive inpatient consult rotations, exposing fellows to diverse endocrine conditions while under faculty supervision.
• UNLV Health Endocrinology Clinic: This outpatient setting allows fellows to manage ambulatory patients, ensuring comprehensive exposure to clinical practices.
• Veterans Affairs Southern Nevada Healthcare System: Rotations here provide fellows with unique insights into the care of veteran populations with complex health needs.

Electives and Research Opportunities

Fellows can enhance their training through electives in specialties such as Pediatric Endocrinology, Wound Care, and various surgical disciplines. Research plays a vital role in the fellowship, with fellows expected to engage in scholarly activities and present findings at conferences.

Didactic Learning and Conferences

The curriculum includes a comprehensive didactic conference series held throughout the academic year that encompasses:

• Weekly core lectures focused on endocrinology topics.
• Regular case discussions, morbidity, and mortality conferences to facilitate quality improvement.
• Monthly journal clubs and Grand Rounds, where experts share insights on current research and clinical practices.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Two fellows are selected each year. Candidates must have completed three years of Internal Medicine residency training and qualify for board certification in Internal Medicine. The application process is highly competitive and requires the following materials:

• ERAS application
• Current curriculum vitae
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcripts
• USMLE official transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation, including one from the Internal Medicine residency program director and another from an endocrinologist.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcomed and supported. The program is known to be DO/IMG-friendly, with provisions for visa sponsorship, including J-1 and H-1B visa types, to facilitate the training of qualified international candidates.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine's fellowship in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism stands out due to its robust training environment and diverse clinical exposure. Fellows benefit from:

• A strong emphasis on scholarly inquiry, allowing participation in the research process alongside experienced faculty.
• Access to advanced patient care technologies and methodologies, enhancing practical training.
• A supportive educational environment that fosters academic and professional growth through teamwork and collaboration.