McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Program

The Transplant Hepatology Fellowship at the McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University provides an intensive 12-month advanced training program specifically designed to equip fellows with the skills necessary to manage complex liver diseases. The fellowship emphasizes on conditions such as decompensated cirrhosis, hepatobiliary cancers, and post-transplant care, and integrates extensive clinical exposure with educational experiences.

Northwestern's Liver Transplant Program is distinguished by its high volume of procedures, performing over 100 liver transplants annually, including a significant proportion of living donor transplants. The program's commitment to underserved populations is reflected in its specialized Hispanic and African-American transplant programs, making this fellowship not only rigorous in its training but also socially responsible and community-oriented.

Clinical Experience

The fellowship structure is split into outpatient and inpatient services, with alternating month-long rotations. Outpatient experience includes involvement in pre- and post-liver transplant clinics, supported by a continuity clinic for post-transplant patients. The fellow will also participate in subspecialty rotations in Pediatric TH and Transplant Infectious Diseases towards the latter half of the fellowship, allowing for a well-rounded educational exposure.

On the inpatient side, fellows are tasked with supervising residents in the Hepatology primary service and managing long-term post-liver transplant patients. This role includes presenting cases at daily multidisciplinary rounds and potentially acting as the primary consultant for pre/post-liver transplant ICU patients.

Procedures and Competency

Networking with seasoned faculty ensures comprehensive training in procedures such as endoscopy, with dedicated sessions throughout the week to refine these skills. Fellows are expected to achieve competency in interpreting liver biopsies, with an opportunity to participate in surgeries, including organ procurement and recipient surgeries.

Educational Framework

As an ACGME-accredited program, education is foundational. This is achieved through direct clinical experiences, an online curriculum tailored to board review preparation, and regular feedback mechanisms. Weekly conferences and meetings with the Program Director emphasize continuous professional development and wellness.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages scholarly activities, including completing at least one quality improvement project and producing publishable research—essential components that foster an academic mindset. A supportive network facilitates these endeavors, allowing fellows to pursue relevant research aligned with faculty expertise and interests.

Diversity and Inclusion

The fellowship promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment, recognizing that various perspectives are critical in tackling complex medical challenges. The Northwestern community endeavors to cultivate an enriching atmosphere where trainees from diverse backgrounds can thrive. The program encourages applicants who are motivated and committed to academic excellence and community service.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility for the fellowship requires candidates to be board-eligible or board-certified in Gastroenterology at the time of matriculation. The program has structured pathways for entry, either through a traditional three-year gastrointestinal fellowship or a two-year integrated fellowship followed by the transplant hepatology year. External applications via the AASLD Transplant Hepatology Fellowship Application System are required, which include submission of a CV, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and USMLE scores.

Visa and International Applicants

The program is open to international medical graduates and provides support for obtaining visas necessary for training, typically sponsoring J-1 visas. Applicants are encouraged to fulfill all requirements set forth by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) for a smooth application process.

Competitiveness

This fellowship is highly competitive and attracts candidates who have shown excellence in their previous training. It is both DO and IMG friendly, welcoming a diverse range of candidates from various educational backgrounds.