Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Rochester) Program

Program Overview

The Rheumatology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is a prestigious two-year program designed to provide intensive training in the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases. The fellowship offers two positions on a competitive basis each year, with the opportunity for an optional third year for those who wish to pursue academic careers in research or education. The program's faculty comprises approximately 18 experienced rheumatologists who offer rich mentorship and diverse clinical expertise, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive learning environment 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship features a robust curriculum that incorporates clinical training, didactic education, and research opportunities.

Clinical Training

During the first year of training, fellows spend three to four months in the inpatient consulting service, followed by rotations in outpatient rheumatology and elective rotations. The second year focuses on completing remaining clinical rotations, with an elective month also available at Mayo Clinic's campus in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona 3.

Elective Opportunities

Fellows can choose from numerous electives tailored to their interests, including physical medicine and rehabilitation, spine center, hand clinic, metabolic bone clinic, pediatric rheumatology, and more 3.

Didactic Training

The curriculum incorporates core curriculum conferences, seminars, journal clubs, simulation center exercises, and formal coursework in the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS). Bedside teaching and informal teaching methods are key components of the educational framework 3.

Research Opportunities

A significant facet of the fellowship is the emphasis on research. Fellowship training includes dedicated time for research during the optional third year, allowing fellows to engage in projects that align with their interests. Mentorship is provided to guide protocol development, data analysis, and manuscript preparation, enhancing the opportunity to present at national and international meetings 3.

Fellow Life

The fellowship prioritizes the physical and mental well-being of its trainees. Support resources are available, including access to the Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center, which offers fitness classes and wellness coaching at a low cost 4. Wellness initiatives also include counseling services, group support for trainees and families, and various social activities to foster community engagement.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Rheumatology Fellowship program is known to be highly competitive and has specific application requirements. Candidates must have successfully completed an accredited internal medicine residency and hold a valid license to practice medicine in the United States. Furthermore, all application materials must be submitted by August 1 of the year prior to the program start date 2.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates (IMGs). Typically, H-1B visas are used for this purpose. Interested applicants should ensure they meet the requirements set forth for visa sponsorship 4.

Diversity and Inclusion

Mayo Clinic is committed to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the community it serves. Initiatives are in place to support recruitment and mentorship of underrepresented groups in medicine, including women and LGBTI individuals, to enhance the training experience for all fellows 4.

Department and Faculty

The Division of Rheumatology at Mayo Clinic caters to approximately 14,000 patients annually, providing fellows with exposure to a wide variety of rheumatic diseases. The faculty not only excels in patient care but also in education, with many members recognized as leaders in their field. Fellows can expect to have direct access to faculty and frequent opportunities for mentorship and guidance 5.