National Institutes of Health Clinical Center Program
Location:
Bethesda, MDSpecialty:
Infectious diseaseACGME Code:
1462321184Overview of the Infectious Diseases Program
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center offers a Clinical Electives Program in Infectious Diseases aimed at fourth-year medical students. This four-week rotation allows students to join the infectious disease consultation team, interacting with fellows and attending physicians as they manage complex cases.
Curriculum and Rotation Details
The rotation is structured to provide comprehensive clinical exposure. Students typically work weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m. Activities include:
- Morning rounds with the fellow until 10:30 a.m.
- Discussion of microbiology lab results with the attending physician and microbiology staff.
- Working up new patient consults and following up on previous consults.
- Presenting cases to the attending physician in the afternoon and writing clinical notes for the medical chart.
Medical Grand Rounds and additional teaching conferences are available, although attendance is not mandatory. Students do not engage in laboratory work but can attend research conferences to enhance their understanding of ongoing studies at NIH.
Rotation Objectives
The program focuses on several key objectives:
- Providing clinical exposure to a diverse array of complex infectious disease cases.
- Familiarizing students with ongoing research studies in the field of Infectious Diseases.
- Enhancing patient care through knowledge gained from the diagnostic microbiology laboratory.
- Encouraging students to present a patient case at one of the bi-weekly infectious disease conferences.
- Providing insights into the path of pursuing infectious disease subspecialization following internal medicine residency.
Selection of Applicants
Each four-week rotation accommodates one student. The application process emphasizes selecting candidates who are eager to learn and contribute to the team environment. Specific requirements include being in the fourth year of medical training.
Unique Aspects of the Program
Students will gain access to robust resources, including one of the premier medical libraries in the United States and the extensive NIH computer system for research purposes. The program is designed to enhance both clinical skills and knowledge of infectious diseases in a supportive academic environment.
Research Opportunities and Teaching Conferences
While direct laboratory work is not part of the rotation, students can benefit from attending various research conferences that take place at NIH. These conferences provide valuable insights into current research efforts and their application to clinical practice.
Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program offers visa support for international medical students looking to participate. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 visas, tailored for exchange visitors undertaking clinical training or research in the U.S.
Competitiveness and Applicant Profile
The Infectious Diseases Program is considered competitive, with a specific inclination towards candidates who have strong academic credentials and a keen interest in infectious diseases. It is generally favorable for diverse backgrounds, including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) students.
Website
Director
Christa S Zerbe, MD, MSProgram Director Appointed Since June 2018 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$85,338First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.7XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Bethesda, MD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Bethesda, MD
- Safety: Bethesda is considered a safe area with a lower crime rate compared to other parts of Maryland.
- Fun Activities: Bethesda offers a vibrant arts and culture scene with theaters, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. It also has beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for recreational activities.
- Climate: Bethesda experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant.
- Population: Bethesda is a diverse community with a mix of residents from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Education: Bethesda is known for its excellent public and private schools, making it a family-friendly area.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Bethesda is higher than the national average, especially in terms of housing.
- Nearby Cities: Washington, D.C. is approximately 30 minutes away by car, offering a wide range of cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment options.
Pros: Safe environment, diverse community, excellent schools, proximity to Washington, D.C.
Cons: High cost of living, especially housing prices.
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