Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals Program

The Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Fellowship Training Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin is dedicated to training fellows to become academic pediatric gastroenterologists capable of functioning both as clinicians and researchers. Under the guidance of experienced faculty, the program aims to cultivate fellows' abilities in both clinical practice and scientific inquiry, providing them with the skills necessary to conduct meaningful research and provide high-quality patient care 1.

As the only fellowship program for pediatric gastroenterology in Wisconsin, this training opportunity encompasses a vast catchment area, allowing fellows to gain experience with more than 9 million patients. The fellowship is structured around clinical training in gastroenterological consultation, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and direct patient care. Early on in their fellowship, trainees begin dedicated pediatric endoscopy training, with opportunities to participate in “Fellows Only” continuity clinics supported by a robust interdisciplinary team, including faculty, nurses, and dietitians 1.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship program spans three years, with an emphasis on comprehensive clinical and research training. In the first year, fellows are exposed to a diverse patient population presenting various gastrointestinal, hepatic, and nutritional diseases. Education within this year primarily focuses on developing diagnostic and treatment expertise, alongside participation in departmental conferences and journal clubs to familiarize themselves with the literature 1.

The subsequent two years provide approximately 75% protected time for research while also allowing continued clinical exposure through outpatient clinics and specialized procedures. This dual focus ensures that each fellow can tailor their training to their career aspirations, whether they lean more toward clinical practice or academic research 1.

Clinical Experience

Fellows in this program will gain extensive clinical experience through various patient care activities. These include inpatient consultations, specialty outpatient clinics, and hands-on training in standard gastroenterological procedures. Fellows also engage in specialized rotations through clinics dedicated to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, feeding disorders, and motility disorders, further expanding their clinical acumen 1.

Procedure Training

Training in advanced gastroenterological procedures is a critical component of fellowship education. Fellows participate in numerous standard and advanced procedures, including endoscopy, polypectomies, and esophageal motility studies. This hands-on learning environment is complemented by weekly didactic sessions led by experienced faculty members 1.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research early in their training. By the end of the first year, fellows identify research mentors and pursue projects that they will develop in the second and third years. Support from the faculty includes formal training in research methodologies, which enhances the fellows' capabilities in conducting clinical and bench research with a strong focus on producing presentations for national meetings and publications 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

The fellowship program holds a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, cultivating an environment where various perspectives are celebrated. This commitment is enacted through initiatives such as Unconscious Bias Training and the emphasis on fostering a welcoming community across the fellowship. Efforts geared toward equity in healthcare practice are integrated into all aspects of the fellowship 1.

Application Process and Visa Support

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship accepts applications through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and expects candidates to have completed a U.S.-accredited residency program. For international medical graduates, there are specific visa types that the program supports, including the J-1 Visitor Exchange Visa and H-1B Temporary Professional Workers Visa 1. Complete applications require USMLE or COMLEX scores, letters of reference, and a personal statement.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is regarded as highly competitive, especially due to the unique position it occupies in Wisconsin and the quality of academic and clinical training offered. A notable aspect of this fellowship is its approachability to candidates from different backgrounds, including DO students and international medical graduates, promoting a diverse cohort of fellows who can bring various experiences and perspectives to the training environment 1.