Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Rochester) Program

The Preventive Medicine Fellowship Program at Mayo Clinic offers a comprehensive 24-month training designed for physicians aiming to specialize in general preventive medicine and public health. This program is strategically positioned in Rochester, Minnesota, and focuses on preparing its fellows for leadership roles across various sectors, including clinical preventive medicine, public health, and health-care management.

Accreditation and Certification

The fellowship is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and is aligned with the eligibility requirements for certification from the American Board of Preventive Medicine, ensuring that fellows are trained to meet the highest standards in the field of preventive medicine 1.

Application Process

Up to three positions are available each year. The fellowship program alternates acceptance patterns, typically allowing two fellows to commence in the academic year and one to join in the practicum year. Candidates must have completed a minimum of three years of an accredited residency in internal medicine or family medicine and be board eligible or board certified in these fields to qualify 3.

Applicants should utilize the Recruit online application service and submit all required documentation, which includes a letter of recommendation from the residency program director or department chair. Interviews are conducted from July to November each year, allowing for a thorough evaluation of candidates 2.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum begins with an orientation and clinical rotations in Rochester during the summer of the first year. In the fall, fellows will enroll in the University of Minnesota School of Public Health to pursue a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) degree, with options for specialization in areas such as epidemiology and biostatistics. This academic component is coupled with a mandatory, two-month public health rotation with the St. Paul/Ramsey County Department of Public Health 4.

Extensive patient care experience is gained through rotations at Mayo Clinic's Division of Preventive Medicine and other specialties, where fellows are involved in providing preventive and occupational care services. Opportunities to engage in elective rotations allow fellows to tailor their education based on individual career aspirations in public health and preventive medicine 4.

Research Opportunities

Mayo Clinic possesses a collaborative research environment with multiple world-class researchers available for mentorship. Fellows are expected to conduct original studies which can lead to publication and presentation opportunities at national meetings. This emphasis on research aims to equip fellows with the necessary skills to contribute to the field significantly 4.

Department and Faculty

The Division of Preventive and Occupational Medicine offers comprehensive training, with faculty members who bring diverse expertise from various fields, including public health, aviation medicine, and occupational medicine. Each fellow is assigned a faculty mentor to guide them throughout their fellowship period while aiding in their integration into Rochester's professional community 5.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The fellowship program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, providing essential support for international medical graduates. The program maintains a competitive environment, making it approachable for both DO and IMG candidates. While the program is selective, it considers various applicant backgrounds 3.

Unique Aspects of the Program

This fellowship not only provides extensive clinical training but also promotes an interdisciplinary approach, fostering an understanding of the complex systems influencing public health. The program ensures fellows are exposed to various aspects of preventive medicine, allowing them to choose paths in administration, medical education, or research in public health 4.