Ochsner Clinic Foundation Program

The Rheumatology Fellowship Program at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans is a 2-year, clinically-based fellowship specifically designed for Internal Medicine physicians who have completed three years of approved graduate training in Internal Medicine in the United States. One of the prerequisites for completion of the fellowship is the passage of the American Board of Internal Medicine examination in Internal Medicine. The program's mission focuses on establishing a comprehensive understanding of rheumatic and related diseases, including osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease, thereby preparing Fellows for proficient practice in this specialty.

The fellowship offers extensive clinical experience in joint and connective tissue diseases, as well as allied areas such as immunology and osteoporosis. A distinctive feature of the program is its emphasis on musculoskeletal ultrasound, supplemented by the availability of portable ultrasound devices at both Ochsner's Main Campus in New Orleans and a device in Baton Rouge. Education in musculoskeletal ultrasound is integral to the program, with exposure provided to the USSONAR Course through regular participation and auditing of the course materials under the guidance of faculty members.

Educational Experience

The educational framework of the Rheumatology Fellowship Program encompasses a wide array of mandatory conferences aimed at promoting scholarly growth. These include quarterly multidisciplinary conferences, coding and documentation conferences, and a variety of specialized meetings such as the Cellular Immunology Research Conference and monthly Quality Improvement/Safety Conferences. Regular journal clubs, case conferences, and clinical and basic science didactics are also part of the rigorous curriculum. The Fellows are regularly evaluated on their competencies across six key core categories, ensuring that they maintain high clinical standards.

Additional assessments include competency in joint aspiration injection and the use of polarized light for examination. Instructional modules offered encompass crucial skills in osteoporosis screening and DEXA interpretation. These education and evaluation mechanisms are embedded within the New Innovations Residency System, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Fellows and Alumni

The fellowship has produced a diverse cohort of Fellows and alumni, who have gone on to various prestigious post-graduate positions. Current fellows hail from various regions and educational backgrounds, adding to the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives within the program. This diversity fosters a collaborative learning environment where knowledge sharing is encouraged, further elevating the educational experience.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research and scholarly engagement are significant components of the fellowship experience. Fellows are expected to participate actively in ongoing clinical research within the department and complete a course on good clinical practices in clinical research trials. With a goal of publishing in peer-reviewed journals during their two-year fellowship, there is also scope for involvement in institutional Quality Improvement projects.

Fellows can choose to engage in advanced research activities, such as participating in basic research projects related to the Department of Cellular Immunology, which may involve studies on collagen-induced arthritis and lupus models. Case reports and literature reviews are also encouraged to enhance the fellows' research portfolio.

Teaching Facilities

The rheumatology fellowship utilizes several outstanding teaching facilities, including Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans, which is recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based medical care. This comprehensive healthcare hub offers state-of-the-art technology and facilities necessary for advanced medical training. Key facilities include Ochsner Baptist, a fully accredited hospital, and other locations that cater to a variety of patient care needs, from acute medical conditions to specialized pediatrics.

This multifaceted approach to training underscores the program's dedication to providing the best possible educational and clinical experiences for its fellows, preparing them for positions of leadership within the rheumatology community.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates (IMGs), which commonly include J-1 and H-1B visas. These options facilitate the participation of qualified international candidates in the fellowship, promoting diversity and enriching the program's academic environment.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Rheumatology Fellowship Program at Ochsner is known for its competitive nature, attracting a wide range of applicants, including those from DO backgrounds and international medical graduates. Special application requirements may include specific deadlines, graduation timelines, and maximum failed STEP examinations; however, candidates are encouraged to verify current standards directly. These elements contribute to the program's reputation for excellence and its commitment to producing highly qualified specialists in rheumatology.