Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium Program

The Infectious Diseases Fellowship at Loma Linda University Health aims to develop highly skilled and knowledgeable physicians who provide compassionate care in the field of infectious diseases. This program is a part of the Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium and emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic health disparities, engaging in quality improvement processes, and performing medical research. Graduates of the fellowship are trained to offer high-quality care while being sensitive to the diverse communities they serve.

Program Highlights

The program provides a broad range of clinical training within a Level 1 Trauma Center, specifically designed to nurture medical professionals who demonstrate a commitment to community health. The fellowship will feature:

• Exposure to diverse patient populations, including immunocompromised individuals and persons living with HIV-1 infection.
• Global health experiences through partnerships within the Adventist Health International network.
• A curriculum that focuses on scholarly work encompassing research and community outreach.

The unique aspects of the Infectious Diseases Fellowship include a strong commitment to community health and a focus on wellness both for patients and residents. Training emphasizes not only clinical skills but also personal well-being through various supportive initiatives.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is designed to cover core competencies through various learning modalities:

• Extensive clinical experiences across diverse populations.
• Skills training focusing on transplant and immunocompromised patient care.
• Research and scholarly work projects under close mentorship.
• Global health opportunities integrated within the curriculum.

The training is structured over two years:

PGY-1

• 44 weeks of inpatient rotations at Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) and the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans Hospital (LLVA).
• Two weeks of microbiology rotation and two weeks dedicated to research.
• Continuity clinic every week for half a day and four weeks of vacation.

PGY-2

• Focus on transplant and immunocompromised inpatient rotations, alongside additional opportunities in various specialty clinics.
• Involvement in research or global health experiences, clinical responsibilities, and educational rotations.
• A total of 48 weeks of continuity clinic, with four weeks of vacation.

Global Health and Health Disparities

The fellowship is deeply integrated into global health initiatives. Through collaboration with the Global Health Institute, residents can engage with international partner sites and tackle healthcare delivery issues both locally and globally. Residents also have a unique opportunity to partake in a Health Disparities Research Concentration designed to enhance understanding of the social determinants of health among underserved communities in San Bernardino County.

Living and Working at Loma Linda

Loma Linda University is situated in Southern California, an area known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The affordable housing near the medical center makes it feasible for fellows to live comfortably while completing their training. The community is rich in culture and features a diverse population enabling a well-rounded living experience.

Southern California provides plenty of family-friendly activities and entertainment options, including renowned attractions, beaches, and state parks, all within driving distance from the medical center.

Stipends and Benefits

The stipend structure is competitive, incorporating a housing allowance of $5,000 per year along with a meal allowance of $1,500 per year. Furthermore, comprehensive medical and dental plans are provided at a minimal cost. Residents benefit from 240 hours of paid time off annually, nine paid holidays, and additional educational allowances for academic expenses.

Additional benefits include opportunities for moonlighting, reimbursement for various professional fees, and access to wellness resources that prioritize personal and occupational well-being.

Visas and Application Requirements

The program is open to international medical graduates (IMGs) and offers visa sponsorship options, including J-1 and H-1B visas. The selection process is competitive, favoring well-rounded candidates with diverse backgrounds, but the program is also known to be welcoming of DO and other non-MD candidates. Special application requirements may include restrictions on the number of failed STEP exams and the year of graduation.

The Infectious Diseases Fellowship at Loma Linda University Health promises an enriching training environment focused on comprehensive skills development, global health contributions, and addressing health disparities within diverse populations.