Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Jacksonville) Program

The two-year Nephrology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Jacksonville, Florida, offers an exceptional opportunity for nephrology training, combining clinical practice, research, and education. This program emphasizes a customized training experience that aligns with the individual career aspirations of each fellow. With an excellent faculty-to-fellow ratio, large patient population, and state-of-the-art facilities, the fellowship ensures that fellows receive a comprehensive and integrated educational experience.

Program Structure and Experience

During the fellowship, participants benefit from robust clinical, educational, and research resources. The focus on wellness promotes a work/life balance, which is vital for fellows. The fellowship is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and fulfills the American Board of Internal Medicine's requirements for nephrology subspecialty training. Ultimately, fellows become eligible to take the nephrology certification exam upon successful program completion.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is designed around a broad range of clinical experiences available through outpatient clinics and hospital services, backed by advanced laboratories dedicated to renal function testing. The rotation schedule typically spans one to two months per block, including critical areas such as inpatient nephrology, outpatient clinics, and renal pathology.

Fellows receive extensive training in various skills such as temporary hemodialysis catheter insertion, urine sediment microscopy, and kidney biopsies. The program also provides hands-on experience in transplant nephrology, with fellows caring for fresh post-transplant patients and managing their long-term needs.

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research, quality improvement projects, and innovation in nephrology, with dedicated time allocated for these pursuits during the fellowship.

Research Opportunities

Research is a fundamental component of the fellowship, and fellows are expected to complete a scholarly project suitable for publication or national presentation. The Division of Nephrology and Hypertension offers a wealth of actively funded research initiatives, granting opportunities for fellows to participate in high-quality research projects throughout their training.

Teaching and Learning Environment

The teaching atmosphere at Mayo Clinic is conducive to personal growth, with opportunities for fellows to engage in teaching internal medicine residents and medical students. Regular evaluations are conducted, providing fellows with feedback about their professional development, performance, and competence across various domains.

Fellows also partake in regular seminars, journal clubs, and core curriculum lectures, which supplement their learning experience. Participation in national meetings is essential, and fellows receive sponsorship for presenting their work, enhancing both their networking and educational experience at a broader level.

Faculty and Mentorship

The program's faculty consists of experienced nephrologists who are dedicated to education and mentoring future professionals. With a diverse team engaged in various specialties, fellows have access to a wealth of insights and personalized guidance throughout their training. Faculty members encourage a mix of professional collaboration and research, which fosters an enriching learning environment.

Application Requirements

The application for the Nephrology Fellowship is competitive, with two positions available each year. Applicants must have completed an internal medicine residency and must be qualified for the American Board of Internal Medicine certifying examination by the fellowship's start date. The application process includes submission through ERAS and an invitation for an interview with program faculty. It’s essential for candidates to register for the Medical Specialties Matching Program (MSMP) in addition to applying.

International Applicants and Visa Support

The program welcomes international medical graduates (IMGs) and offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates. The types of visas supported include J-1 visas, which are commonly used for foreign medical graduates to practice in the U.S. during their training.

Competitiveness

The Nephrology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic is highly competitive, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds across the globe. The program is friendly to both DO and IMG candidates, recognizing the potential that aspiring nephrologists bring from various medical training experiences.

Living in Jacksonville

Jacksonville provides a vibrant backdrop for fellowship training, with a mix of activities and cultural experiences to enjoy during off-work hours. The city is known for its natural beauty, various outdoor activities, and diverse dining options, making it a favorable environment for personal life and leisure.