Mercyhealth GME Consortium Program
Location:
Rockford, ILSpecialty:
GastroenterologyACGME Code:
1441614004The Gastroenterology Fellowship Program at Mercyhealth is a new initiative set to commence in July 2023, designed to cultivate skilled gastroenterologists committed to evidence-based patient care. The program emphasizes lifelong learning and professional growth, preparing fellows for unsupervised practice in gastroenterology.
Program Goals and Structure
The program aims to:
- Enhance patient care within a community-based gastroenterology framework.
- Offer a comprehensive clinical experience through supervised training over three years.
- Foster an environment conducive to education and scholarship in a diverse setting.
- Develop adept gastroenterologists skilled in both cognitive aspects and endoscopic procedures, with an emphasis on quality and patient-centric care.
Didactic components of the fellowship include traditional lectures, morbidity and mortality conferences, pathology discussions, research presentations, and endoscopy conferences. Fellows will also engage in quality improvement projects and participate in a monthly Journal Club aimed at developing critical appraisal skills in the literature.
Application Process
Two fellowship positions will be filled through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), with all applications submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must present a curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation (three, with at least one from the residency program director), medical school diploma, transcript, performance evaluation, personal statement, a photograph, and USMLE or COMLEX scores, along with the AMSSM Code of Ethics submitted via email to the program coordinator. Early application submission is encouraged, adhering to ERAS timelines.
The eligibility criteria dictate that applicants must either be enrolled in or have graduated from an ACGME-accredited Family Medicine or Internal Medicine residency. Upon acceptance, candidates must also secure Illinois and Wisconsin medical licenses, a DEA license, BLS, and ACLS certifications prior to the commencement of the program. Additionally, Mercyhealth reimburses expenses for medical licensing and certification.
Salary and Benefits
Salaries for fellows are competitive and scale with the training level:
- Postgraduate Year (PGY)-4: $71,250
- PGY-5: $72,250
- PGY-6: $73,250
Fellows also enjoy a variety of benefits, including access to health, dental, and vision insurance, malpractice insurance, employee assistance programs, paid vacation, free parking, and more. They will receive support for relocation expenses and membership fees for professional organizations.
Program Leadership
The fellowship is overseen by a dedicated faculty committed to educational excellence. The Program Director emphasizes “education over service,” aiming to create a scholarly and enriching training environment for the fellows. The extensive clinical experience coupled with educational opportunities aims to develop future leaders in gastroenterology.
Visa Support
It is important to note that the program does not sponsor J-1 Visas, limiting visa options for international medical graduates (IMGs) and international candidates. Applicants should be aware of this as they consider their options for fellowship training.
Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements
The fellowship may be competitive based on the limited number of positions available, catering to those motivated to further their training in a community setting. Prospective fellows should ensure they meet all outlined eligibility and application requirements to enhance their chances of securing a position.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
80hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$71,250First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
-Residents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Rockford, IL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Rockford, IL
Rockford, IL is a city located in northern Illinois. Here are some aspects of living in Rockford:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Rockford has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
- Fun Activities: Rockford offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports due to its proximity to the Rock River and multiple parks. There are also museums, art galleries, and cultural events for residents to enjoy.
- Climate: Rockford experiences all four seasons with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snowfall during winter months.
- Races and Population: Rockford is a diverse city with a mix of races and ethnicities among its residents.
- Education: Rockford has several public and private schools at all levels. There are also higher education institutions in the area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Rockford is lower compared to the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
- Nearest Bigger Cities: Chicago is the nearest major city to Rockford, located about 90 miles away. Driving to Chicago can take around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Chicago offers a wide range of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, proximity to outdoor activities, diverse population.
- Cons: Higher crime rate, cold winters, distance from major cities.
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