Medical College of Georgia Program

The Infectious Diseases Fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia, part of Augusta University, is an established two-year program that has been training physicians since 1979. This program is designed to prepare fellows for a range of career paths, including private practice, academic medicine, industry, and humanitarian service with international organizations. Through rigorous training and educational opportunities, fellows are equipped with the skills needed to become excellent Infectious Disease clinicians who are ready for autonomous practice.

The fellowship program is highly competitive and has specific eligibility requirements. Applicants must have successfully completed, or be in the process of completing, a three-year residency in Internal Medicine, laying the groundwork for specialized training in infectious diseases. This prerequisite ensures that incoming fellows have a solid foundation in internal medicine, which is critical for addressing the complexities encountered in Infectious Disease cases 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum of the Infectious Diseases Fellowship is structured to provide extensive clinical exposure and advanced educational experiences. Fellows engage in patient care under the guidance of experienced faculty, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of various infectious diseases. The curriculum also emphasizes research, allowing fellows to engage in important studies that advance the field of infectious diseases.

Rotations

Fellows participate in a variety of clinical rotations that are essential to their training. These rotations often include inpatient and outpatient settings, consultations, and specialized clinics focused on HIV, tuberculosis, and tropical medicine, among others. These experiences provide resiliency and adaptability in evaluating and managing a diverse patient population, strengthening the fellows’ clinical acumen 1.

Research Opportunities

A significant component of the fellowship is dedicated to research, encouraging fellows to pursue scholarly projects. This allows fellows to contribute to the evolution of Infectious Disease practice while enhancing their analytical skills. The program fosters a collaborative research environment, enabling fellows to work alongside seasoned researchers and gain valuable insights into both clinical and laboratory investigations.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Medical College of Georgia's Infectious Diseases Fellowship distinguishes itself through a commitment to diverse career development pathways. Former fellows have successfully transitioned into various fields, demonstrating the program's flexibility and breadth. Additionally, the fellowship prioritizes mentorship and support, with dedicated faculty members guiding fellows throughout their training journey 1.

Visa Support

The program is supportive of international candidates and offers visa sponsorship. Typically, the fellowship is able to sponsor J-1 visas for qualified international medical graduates. This support is crucial for attracting diverse talents and ensuring an enriching learning environment.

Competitiveness

As a respected program, it is noted for its competitiveness. The fellowship invites applications from both U.S. and international graduates, making it a favorable option for DO and IMG candidates interested in specializing in infectious diseases. Each year, the program carefully evaluates all applications, ensuring that fellows selected will thrive in the clinical and research components of the fellowship.

Special Application Requirements

Applicants to the Infectious Diseases Fellowship must adhere to specific application requirements, such as completing their Internal Medicine residency. There may also be considerations regarding the number of failed STEP exams, depending on the program’s policies in that regard. These requirements help the program maintain a high standard of excellence among its fellow cohort.