Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program
Location:
Hershey, PASpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1504114166Program Overview
The Rheumatology Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a two-year, ACGME-accredited program that offers comprehensive training in rheumatology. The fellowship accepts one fellow per year, emphasizing a balance between clinical training, didactic learning, and research activities.
1Curriculum Structure
First Year
The first year focuses on clinical training, where fellows split their time between inpatient consult services and outpatient clinical experiences. The fellow is responsible for consultations and teaching responsibilities under the supervision of a faculty attending physician. Daily consultation rounds include a multidisciplinary team, providing comprehensive longitudinal experience in managing chronic rheumatic diseases.
1During outpatient rotations, fellows engage in daily clinics, managing a diverse patient population with rheumatology conditions. Two half-day continuity fellow clinics are conducted weekly at the main hospital and one at the VA Hospital, with an individual education-driven approach from dedicated faculty.
1Elective rotations during the first year include outpatient subspecialty clinics across various fields such as rehabilitation medicine, dermatology, and pediatric rheumatology. Scheduled educational activities consist of weekly clinical conferences, journal clubs, and other didactic sessions vital for the fellows' learning experience.
1Second Year
The second year is divided between inpatient services, outpatient clinical activities, and research. The continuity clinic remains vital in the second year, with fellows expected to expand their research activities. Elective options are available, facilitating personalized training according to fellows' interests.
1Clinical and Research Training
The fellowship emphasizes robust exposure to inpatient consultations, allowing fellows to manage various rheumatic diseases such as arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and more. Outpatient experiences are equally critical, equipping fellows to manage patients independently by the end of the fellowship.
1Research training is a core component, enabling fellows to identify research topics early in their fellowship, securing faculty mentorship to aid in developing proposals. Fellows present their research at national meetings, with expectations for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Research areas include autoimmune disease mechanisms and clinical trials in various disease areas.
1Conferences and Educational Opportunities
Fellows participate in a variety of conferences focused on rheumatology core topics, journal club discussions, research presentations, and case reviews. Regular interaction with faculty during these conferences enhances fellows' clinical reasoning and evidence-based management skills.
1Application and Selection Process
Applicants for the fellowship must meet specific qualifications, including graduation from an accredited medical school and successful completion of an ACGME-accredited residency program. The selection process involves a thorough evaluation of applications, and interviews are conducted by invitation only.
1Submission of three letters of recommendation is required, ideally including one from a rheumatologist. Candidates must also be ECFMG-eligible, possess a J-1 visa for international applicants, and have passed USMLE Step 3.
1Diversity and Wellness Initiatives
The program celebrates and supports diversity through initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity among its trainees. Resources focus on ensuring emotional, social, and physical wellness to help fellows thrive in their training.
1Visa and Competitiveness
The Rheumatology Fellowship invites candidates from various backgrounds, including IMGs. The program provides support for J-1 visa sponsorship, making it accessible for qualified international applicants.
1Notable Program Features
The fellowship prepares candidates not only for clinical practice but also for academic careers in rheumatology. Research opportunities extend beyond the fellowship duration, fostering long-term professional development.
1Website
Director
Shirley A Albano-Aluquin, MDPD -Assistant Professor of Medicine Appointed Since January 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,324First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Hershey, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Hershey, PA
Hershey, PA is a charming town known for its chocolate production. Here are some aspects of living in Hershey:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Hershey is generally considered a safe town with a lower crime rate compared to larger cities.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy attractions like Hersheypark, Hershey's Chocolate World, and various events hosted by the Hershey Entertainment Complex.
- Climate: Hershey experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters.
- Races and Population: The population of Hershey is diverse, with a mix of various races and ethnicities.
- Education: Hershey is home to the Milton Hershey School and several public schools known for their quality education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Hershey is generally higher than the national average, particularly in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Harrisburg, the capital of Pennsylvania, is about 15 miles away from Hershey and can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by car. Harrisburg offers more city amenities and cultural attractions.
Pros: Charming town with a strong sense of community, abundance of family-friendly activities, and proximity to larger cities.
Cons: Higher cost of living, limited nightlife options compared to big cities.
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