Loyola University Medical Center Program
Location:
Maywood, ILSpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1501621003The Rheumatology program at Loyola University Medical Center offers a rigorous and comprehensive fellowship experience for physicians seeking to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatologic conditions. The program's objective is to cultivate knowledgeable, skilled, and research-oriented specialists in the field of rheumatology, equipped with the necessary tools to provide patient-centered care.
Curriculum and Training
The fellowship curriculum is structured to ensure that fellows gain extensive expertise in various aspects of rheumatology, including clinical practice, research methodologies, and the application of evidence-based medicine. Fellows participate in a variety of educational activities, including:
- Direct patient care with a diverse patient population experiencing varied rheumatologic illnesses.
- Didactic sessions covering fundamental topics in rheumatology, including autoimmune diseases, arthritis, and systemic connective tissue disorders.
- Participation in clinical conferences and case discussions to facilitate clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.
Rotations
The program includes comprehensive clinical rotations that expose fellows to both inpatient and outpatient settings. Key rotation areas may include:
- Outpatient Rheumatology Clinic: Offers fellows the opportunity to diagnose and manage patients with a wide range of rheumatologic diseases.
- Inpatient Rheumatology Consultation Service: Provides experience in managing complex cases requiring multidisciplinary collaborations.
- Specialty Clinics: Opportunities to work in sub-specialty clinics focusing on areas like musculoskeletal ultrasound and biologic therapies.
Research Opportunities
A significant focus of the program is research. Fellows are encouraged to engage in ongoing research projects that contribute to the understanding of rheumatology. Areas of research may include clinical trials, basic science research, and outcomes studies. The program's affiliation with an academic medical center enables fellows to collaborate with experienced researchers and access resources necessary for high-quality research, assisting in the translation of findings into clinical practice.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program prides itself on a multidisciplinary approach to rheumatology. Fellows work alongside specialists from various fields, such as:
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Dermatology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Nephrology
- Hematology/Oncology
This collaborative environment fosters a comprehensive understanding of complex patient cases and enhances the holistic treatment of rheumatology patients.
The fellowship is also committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity, ensuring a supportive environment that values varying perspectives within the field of rheumatology.
Training Sites
Fellows primarily provide care at Loyola University Medical Center, which is a well-respected academic medical center known for its advanced treatment protocols and patient care services. This facility offers a wide range of clinical resources and infrastructure to support fellows in their training.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The fellowship program is highly competitive, welcoming applications from both MD and DO candidates, including international medical graduates. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to the field of rheumatology through their previous training and experience. Applicants typically should not have more than one failed Step exam, and preference might be given to graduates within a certain timeframe from medical school. Additionally, applicants will often be required to provide letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and information regarding their clinical experience.
Visa Support
The program supports International Medical Graduates (IMGs) through the sponsorship of J-1 and H-1B visas, ensuring that international candidates are available to train within the program efficiently and comply with visa regulations.
Website
Director
Rochella A Ostrowski, MD, MSRheumatology Fellowship Program Director, Professor of Medicine Appointed Since June 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$76,932First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
2Location
Maywood, IL 60153
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Maywood, IL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Maywood has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, so caution is advised.
- Fun Activities: Maywood is close to Chicago, providing access to a wide variety of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment opportunities.
- Climate: Maywood experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters.
- Races and Population: Maywood has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities.
- Education: Maywood is home to different educational institutions, including Triton College.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Maywood is slightly higher than the national average.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Maywood is approximately a 25-minute drive from Chicago, a major city known for its vibrant culture and numerous amenities.
- Pros: Close proximity to Chicago, diverse population, and access to educational opportunities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate and slightly elevated cost of living.
Interview Questions
