Louisiana State University School of Medicine Program
Location:
New Orleans, LASpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1502113157The Rheumatology Fellowship Program at Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans offers a comprehensive two-year training designed to equip fellows with the skills necessary to excel in the field of rheumatology. The program emphasizes clinical training and research, providing fellows with diverse experiences across multiple healthcare settings.
Educational Structure
The fellowship program is structured to impart in-depth knowledge and clinical experience covering a wide range of rheumatological conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, spondyloarthropathies, and vasculitis. The educational environment fosters the development of both clinical skills and academic knowledge, allowing fellows to become proficient clinicians as well as future educators and researchers 1.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum integrates core lectures, patient case discussions, and various conferences. This includes:
- The LSU Multidisciplinary Conference held weekly, involving core lectures, journal clubs, and guest presentations.
- Wednesday afternoon didactics focused on clinical cases, procedures, and ultrasound.
- Quarterly city-wide conferences that promote collaboration with other rheumatology fellowship programs in the area.
- Bimonthly pharmacology lectures which support board review discussions.
Such a rich educational framework ensures fellows receive exposure not only to essential rheumatology topics but also multidisciplinary approaches, essential for holistic patient care 7.
Clinical Rotations
The fellowship includes rotations at four primary clinical practice sites, providing a diverse range of clinical experiences:
- University Medical Center (UMC)
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (VA)
- Children’s Hospital New Orleans (CHNO)
- Our Lady of the Lake (OLOL) in Baton Rouge
These rotations expose fellows to various patient demographics and offer opportunities to manage complex cases, enhancing their clinical scenario handling skills 6.
Research Opportunities
The program places strong emphasis on research, encouraging fellows to participate in ongoing projects. Faculty members have established cohorts in specific disease states to facilitate research, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and treatment strategies in rheumatology. Recent projects include quality improvement projects and studies on medication outcomes in diverse populations 5.
Application Process
For candidates aiming to join the fellowship, the program participates in the NRMP (Rheum Match). There are two fellowship positions available each year. Important application requirements include:
- ECFMG certification for international medical graduates at the time of application.
- J-1 visa sponsorship exclusively for international medical graduates.
- Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS).
These criteria underscore the program's focus on selecting highly qualified candidates, ensuring a competitive pool of applicants 4.
Competitiveness and Visa Support
The fellowship program is known to be highly competitive, particularly attracting candidates from diverse educational backgrounds, including international medical graduates. Its international medical graduate-friendly policies and J-1 visa sponsorship enhance its appeal to a broader range of applicants. This inclusivity reflects the program's commitment to fostering a diverse and well-rounded incoming class of fellows 3.
Faculty and Educational Environment
The fellowship's faculty comprises experienced professionals dedicated to training the next generation of rheumatologists. Faculty involvement in clinical teaching and direct supervision of fellows is a critical component of the educational experience. This hands-on approach ensures that fellows receive personalized guidance tailored to their career goals in rheumatology 2.
Website
Director
Stephen M Lindsey, MDProfessor of Clinical Medicine/Acting Section Chief Appointed Since April 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,145First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.4XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
1Location
New Orleans, LA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in New Orleans, LA
New Orleans, LA, promises a vibrant and culturally rich living experience for residents. Here's a breakdown of living in this location:
- Crime Rate and Safety: New Orleans has a higher crime rate compared to the national average. While some neighborhoods are safer than others, it's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Known for its lively music scene, delicious cuisine, and Mardi Gras festivities, New Orleans offers endless entertainment options. Residents can enjoy jazz performances, explore historic French Quarter, and indulge in local Creole and Cajun dishes.
- Climate: New Orleans has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels during the summer months.
- Races and Population: New Orleans is a diverse city with a mix of various races and cultures, contributing to its unique charm and cultural richness.
- Education: New Orleans is home to several higher education institutions, including Tulane University and Loyola University, offering educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in New Orleans is relatively lower compared to other major U.S. cities. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood, with more affordable options available in suburban areas.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: New Orleans is located about 90 miles away from Baton Rouge and 335 miles from Houston, making it fairly accessible by car. Baton Rouge is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, offering a change of scenery and additional amenities.
Considerations: While New Orleans is vibrant and culturally rich, it's important to be mindful of the higher crime rate in certain areas and the humid climate during the summer months. Residents should explore different neighborhoods to find a suitable living environment that meets their preferences and safety concerns.
Interview Questions
