Robert Packer Hospital/Guthrie Program

Program Overview

The Guthrie Gastroenterology Fellowship Program is designed to train clinicians in the field of Gastroenterology, emphasizing excellence, patient-centeredness, and teamwork. This three-year program offers a comprehensive clinical experience across various Gastroenterology settings. It encompasses both outpatient and inpatient care, catering to patients from Northern Pennsylvania and Southern New York, thereby providing a diverse experience in GI care ranging from primary to tertiary levels 1.

The fellowship is structured to facilitate a comprehensive experience in endoscopy, with significant opportunities for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Fellows gain experience with advanced techniques such as Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS). The program’s faculty, consisting of seven Board Certified Gastroenterologists, perform around 6,000 upper GI endoscopies and 10,000 colonoscopies annually, along with other advanced procedures 1.

Curriculum

The Gastroenterology Fellowship runs on a 13-block schedule covering various rotations, including inpatient services, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), outpatient endoscopy, and advanced endoscopy, among others. This allows fellows to develop practical skills through hands-on training using state-of-the-art equipment for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The program integrates a Clinical Skills Lab, featuring high and low-fidelity simulators for practice, ensuring fellows are well-prepared for patient care 4.

Training Facilities

The Clinical Skills Lab, worth between $500,000 to $750,000, provides an extensive range of simulators, including advanced life support mannequins and virtual reality endoscopy simulators, which facilitate hands-on learning and preparation prior to patient contact 4.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellow participation in both investigator-initiated and sponsored research alongside the Donald Guthrie Foundation, which provides grant support for research projects. This fosters an environment conducive to scholarly inquiry and the development of clinical investigation skills among fellows 1.

Fellows' Profiles

The fellowship prides itself on its diverse cohort of fellows, who hail from various educational backgrounds and locations. Many have previously completed their residency at Guthrie, valuing the supportive and educational environment. The current fellows include MDs from places like Hyderabad, India, and Seaford, NY, highlighting the program's international reach and appeal 3.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is generally competitive, attracting candidates from both Domestic and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Applicants are expected to have completed their residency and should possess a strong foundation in Internal Medicine. Special application requirements may include a maximum of failed STEP exams and a focus on relevant clinical experience in Gastroenterology 2.

Visa Support

The fellowship program offers visa sponsorship for qualified applicants, catering to individuals requiring J-1 or H-1B visas. This facilitates a diverse applicant pool, enriching the learning environment and fostering international collaboration within the gastroenterology field 2.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship's emphasis on integrative, multi-specialty group practice contributes to a unique educational experience. The combination of extensive clinical exposure, state-of-the-art training facilities, and access to advanced medical technologies prepares fellows for a successful career in gastroenterology. Furthermore, the program's leadership is dedicated to mentorship and fosters an inclusive atmosphere, recognizing the importance of developing trusted leaders in healthcare 2.

The faculty's commitment to teaching combined with the program’s dedication to research and clinical excellence establishes a robust framework for educating the next generation of gastroenterologists.