Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University Health Program

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Program at Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University is a comprehensive three-year ACGME-accredited training program designed to prepare clinicians for a career in pediatric gastroenterology. With a structured curriculum and diverse clinical experiences, the fellowship aims to foster the development of highly skilled specialists who are capable of delivering exceptional patient care and contributing to the field through research and education.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship is structured to provide progressively increasing responsibilities in clinical, procedural, and academic settings. The first year focuses on foundational training in general pediatric gastroenterology, with extensive clinical exposure and didactic learning. Fellows engage in clinical rotations that include inpatient and outpatient settings at Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children’s Hospital, and affiliated clinics.

The second and third years emphasize specialized training, allowing fellows to gain expertise within particular areas of interest. Opportunities for research are integrated into the curriculum, enabling fellows to engage in both basic science and clinical research projects related to gastrointestinal and liver diseases.

Clinical Rotations

Rotations are designed to provide experience in various subspecialties, including:

• Pediatric Inpatient Gastroenterology
• Outpatient Clinics
• Endoscopy Training
• Nutrition and Feeding Disorders
• Hepatology
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Fellows also participate in interdisciplinary rounds and case discussions, which are instrumental in fostering a team-based approach to patient care.

Endoscopy and Procedures

As part of the training, fellows will develop proficiency in performing various endoscopic procedures. High volumes of endoscopic training are provided, including the assessment and management of gastrointestinal disorders through innovative techniques such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy.

Research Opportunities

The program places a strong emphasis on research, encouraging fellows to identify and pursue research interests that align with their career goals. Collaborative research initiatives are supported by the faculty, with potential access to a broad range of clinical and epidemiological studies. Research projects can span various topics in pediatric gastroenterology, providing the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship is characterized by:

• A diverse patient population, serving children from various backgrounds, which enriches the clinical learning experience.
• Access to a broad range of subspecialties, ensuring comprehensive training across different areas of pediatric gastroenterology.
• A supportive faculty dedicated to mentorship and the professional development of fellows.
• Opportunities for international electives and presentations at national conferences.

Training Sites

Fellows train at several esteemed institutions within the Brown University system, including:

• Rhode Island Hospital
• Hasbro Children’s Hospital
• The Miriam Hospital
• Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center

Visa Support

The program provides sponsorship for J-1 visas for international medical graduates, facilitating their participation in the fellowship.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship at Brown University tends to be highly competitive, with a focus on attracting well-rounded candidates with strong academic backgrounds, clinical skills, and a passion for pediatric gastrointestinal health. Applicants must have completed a residency in pediatrics and are typically required to hold valid ECFMG certification or US policies for international medical graduates.

The application requires submission through the ERAS system, along with documentation that includes letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant transcripts. Specific eligibility requirements, including time since graduation and maximum allowable failed examinations, are strictly adhered to, ensuring a thorough selection process.

On-Call Responsibilities

Fellows participate in a structured on-call schedule, alternating calls between weekdays and weekends, providing them with experiences in acute care management and decision-making.