Loyola University Medical Center Program

Loyola University Medical Center's Geriatric Medicine Fellowship program is a one-year, ACGME-accredited clinical fellowship located at the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital. The program has been established since 1988 and prides itself on offering a diverse curriculum along with a robust didactic schedule aimed at training proficient geriatricians ready for careers in various medical settings.

Situated just outside Chicago, the program affords fellows convenient access to urban amenities while offering ample parking at the VA facilities. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a range of career paths, including academic medicine, private practice, and further subspecialty fellowships. The program emphasizes the comprehensive training that fellows receive, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in geriatric medicine.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship is designed to provide fellows with extensive exposure to the many facets of geriatric care. The program encompasses 2 half days of dedicated educational seminars each week, featuring:

• Friday noon lectures
• Geriatric Seminars, Grand Rounds, Journal Clubs on Wednesday afternoons
• Board review sessions on Friday afternoons

Additionally, fellows undertake significant block rotations involving:

• Elective rotations in Neurology/Neuropsychology
• Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) Unit
• Geriatric Psychiatry
• Geriatric Rehabilitation
• Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC)
• Hospice & Palliative Medicine
• Inpatient Geriatric Consults

There are also longitudinal rotations that include experience in VA nursing homes, community nursing homes, and outpatient clinics, ensuring well-rounded training experiences throughout the fellowship year 1.

Research and Quality Improvement

During the fellowship year, each fellow is required to complete a Quality Improvement (QI) project, with presentations made to the Section of Geriatrics, reinforcing the program's commitment to academia and research in the field of geriatrics.

Training Sites

The primary training site for the program is the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, which provides a specialized environment for training in geriatrics. This affiliation allows fellows to engage with a veteran population, significantly benefiting their geriatric training through exposure to a breadth of unique clinical experiences.

Application Process

The application process for the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship is conducted through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) and the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program accepts candidates with training in either Internal Medicine or Family Medicine. The only visa type sponsored by the program is the J-1 clinical visa, which allows for international medical graduates to participate in the program.

Applicants must submit the following materials for consideration:

• Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement
• Three Letters of Reference (including one from the residency Program Director)
• Loyola University Medical Center Application
• Hines VA Medical Center Application

This program has four approved one-year fellowship positions. After the NRMP Geriatrics match concludes, the program may accept applications for any remaining open spots.

Competitiveness and Applicant Profile

The Geriatric Medicine Fellowship at Loyola University Medical Center is considered highly competitive. The program welcomes a diverse applicant pool, including those who have completed training from both DO and IMG backgrounds, encouraging inclusivity and a range of perspectives in geriatrics.

Fellow Experience

Fellows report a supportive and nurturing training environment, noting the camaraderie with faculty and fellow residents. The balance between clinical training and educational activities fosters a dynamic learning atmosphere.

Throughout the experience, fellows are involved in caring for elderly patients, particularly veterans, which provides them with meaningful encounters and relationships that enhance their understanding and appreciation of geriatric care. Alumni testimonials highlight the program's effectiveness in preparing graduates for successful careers in various areas of medicine, underscoring the program's success in contributing to the growth of future leaders in geriatric medicine 2 3.