Nationwide Children's Hospital/Ohio State University Program

The Adolescent Medicine Fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital prepares fellows for a career in adolescent medicine, emphasizing a multi-disciplinary approach to healthcare tailored for adolescents. With a foundation built over 50 years, this program has cultivated a robust curriculum focusing on the diverse health needs of adolescents which adheres to ACGME guidelines. The fellowship consists of a predominantly clinical first year, with subsequent years dedicated to research and academic professional development, preparing fellows for various career paths including primary care, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.

The fellowship spans three years for pediatric-trained applicants, and a two-year option is available for those with backgrounds in internal or family medicine. Graduates of the program fulfill all training requirements to become certified in Adolescent Medicine by the American Board of Pediatrics. Comprehensive clinical experience is a defining feature of the program, allowing fellows to engage in urban and suburban outpatient settings as well as providing care in the juvenile justice system.

Clinical Experience

The clinical training within the fellowship is extensive, encompassing various subspecialties. Fellows work closely with adolescent medicine attendings in clinics focused on gynecology, contraception—including long-acting reversible contraceptives—eating disorders, gender care, and substance abuse. Additional elective opportunities are available in sports medicine, psychiatry, and HIV care, providing a well-rounded experience tailored to each fellow's interests and career goals.

Research and Advocacy Training

Research training is a core component of the fellowship, engaging fellows in projects supported by the Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. This institute is recognized for its leading position in pediatric research and facilitates access to specialized resources and mentorship for pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Public Health or Medical Science. Advocacy training further complements the fellowship, encouraging fellows to partake in child advocacy work addressing health policies, community collaboration, and social determinants of health.

Application Requirements

Interested candidates must submit applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), which typically opens in July for positions commencing the following July. Essential documents required for the application include a personal statement, a curriculum vitae (CV), three letters of recommendation—one of which should come from the program director or chair—and board scores. The application process is competitive, welcoming candidates from diverse backgrounds, including both MDs and DOs, accommodating for international medical graduates as well.

Visa Support

The program provides visa support for international trainees, with sponsorship available for J-1 visas in alignment with the participation in a clinical fellowship. This support is crucial for international medical graduates aiming to gain specialized training in adolescent medicine within the U.S.

Competitiveness

The fellowship is considered competitive, and while it values diverse educational backgrounds—including osteopathic medicine—it maintains high standards for selection. Applicants are usually expected to demonstrate a solid foundation in their prior training, clear motivation for the field of adolescent medicine, and progressive thinking regarding clinical practice, research, and advocacy.

Faculty and Fellow Community

The fellowship boasts a dedicated faculty of board-certified physicians specializing in adolescent medicine. Over 10,000 adolescents are treated annually, allowing fellows to gain immediate experience in clinical settings. Faculty members are involved in both direct teaching and mentorship, ensuring a supportive learning environment that fosters the development of future leaders in adolescent health.