Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV Program

Overview of the Gastroenterology Fellowship Program

The Gastroenterology Fellowship Program at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV is a three-year, ACGME-accredited program that provides comprehensive training in gastroenterology and hepatology. The program's mission is to prepare fellows to become independent physicians and academicians who practice high-quality, patient-centered ethical care and contribute to the field as community leaders.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The fellowship encompasses advanced training across a full spectrum of general gastroenterology and hepatology, aligning with ACGME requirements. The curriculum includes extensive clinical training involving patient care, procedures, sub-specialty rotations, didactic training, and opportunities to engage in clinical and translational research.

Clinical Training

The clinical training allows fellows to deliver patient care in various settings, providing both an inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. As junior faculty members, fellows will supervise medical residents and guide their learning process while conducting gastrointestinal and hepatology consultations.

Endoscopy Procedures

Fellows receive extensive procedural training, including skills in upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, and advanced endoscopic procedures. Training sessions and procedures take place under direct supervision to ensure competency in various techniques ranging from polypectomy to endoscopic ultrasound.

Sub-specialty Rotations

The program allows second and third-year fellows to engage in further sub-specialty rotations, providing additional experience in areas such as hepatology and inflammatory bowel disease. Though dedicated extra-year fellowships are not available, fellows can gain expertise through these rotations.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, with fellows expected to engage in independent research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. Dedicated research time is allocated in the second and third years, allowing fellows to develop protocols, seek grant support, and complete projects suitable for presentation and publication.

Educational Conferences

A diverse range of educational conferences, including tumor boards, case presentations, grand rounds, and journal clubs, are integral to the fellowship. These conferences promote collaboration and enhance fellows' critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Highlights of the fellowship program include advanced procedural training, a commitment to developing research skills, and a diverse faculty with expertise across all gastroenterology subspecialties. The program is designed to foster both clinical knowledge and academic growth among fellows.

Application Requirements

The program seeks to select two to three fellows annually based on the applicant pool and clinical needs. Eligible candidates must submit their applications through ERAS, which should include official medical school transcripts, test scores, three letters of recommendation (including one from an internal medicine program director), a CV, a personal statement, and a valid ECFMG certificate if applicable. The program has specific requirements, including a two-year graduation limit from medical school and a completed USMLE Step 1 score.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The fellowship program welcomes both Domestic and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) who have achieved a passing score on the USMLE Step exams. The program supports J-1 visas and other relevant visa types for qualified candidates. While the program maintains high standards, it is considered friendly towards DO applicants and IMGs, providing equal opportunities for all applicants in the selection process.

Teaching and Leadership Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to teach medical students and residents through bedside clinical teaching and formal presentations. These opportunities allow fellows to refine their teaching abilities and foster leadership skills essential for their future careers.

Clinical and Research Environment

The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine is located in the Las Vegas Medical District and provides fellows with access to diverse patient populations in various clinical settings. The program emphasizes the importance of community health, and fellows actively engage in improving healthcare outcomes in Nevada.

Rotations and Specialty Experiences

Fellows will rotate through several key areas, enhancing their clinical acumen and procedural expertise. Experiences include nutrition and liver transplantation services, along with outpatient specialty clinics that promote continuity of care.