Rochester Regional Health Program

Program Overview

The Rochester General Hospital Infectious Diseases Fellowship is a two-year program aimed at training future leaders in the field of infectious diseases. The program strives to produce specialists who can significantly contribute to the health of the community, providing a robust clinical training experience within a comprehensive healthcare system. Trained professionals have access to resources from several hospitals within the Rochester Regional Health system, including specialized services in cardiology and oncology.

Through the fellowship, participants will engage in hands-on clinical experiences complemented by innovative research opportunities. The training prepares fellows for a diverse range of infectious disease cases, ensuring comprehensive exposure to both common and complex conditions.

Curriculum

The curriculum encompasses intensive clinical training, comprising rotations across various hospitals. The program includes valuable experience in hospital patient safety, quality programs, infection prevention and control, and antibiotic stewardship.

Fellows will participate in:

• ID Consult Service: During the first year, fellows spend 36 weeks in inpatient ID consultation and an additional four weeks in an ambulatory ID rotation. This enables the development of consultation skills under the mentorship of experienced faculty.
• Microbiology Rotation: Fellows are trained to interpret laboratory results, including Gram stains and cultures, as well as gain proficiency in molecular testing methods.
• OPAT Clinic: The Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy Clinic provides opportunities for fellows to manage IV therapy in an outpatient setting, allowing for the implementation of individualized patient care plans.

Research Opportunities

Fellows will engage in research projects focusing on areas such as clinical epidemiology, antimicrobial stewardship, and quality improvement. There is a strong emphasis on scholarly activity, with opportunities to publish findings in medical journals. Research experience in the fellowship is designed to catalyze successful post-fellowship career paths.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Rochester General Hospital operates five hospitals in a 14-county area, offering a diverse patient population and comprehensive medical resources. The fellowship aims to foster diversity and inclusion among fellows and staff, ensuring a welcoming and equitable environment.

The program emphasizes leadership development in all clinical rotations, equipping fellows with the skills necessary to thrive as leaders in the field of infectious diseases.

Training Sites

Main training will take place at Rochester General Hospital, where fellows will have access to multiple specialized services including cardiology, oncology, and intensive care. Additionally, Unity Hospital provides dedicated clinical settings for HIV and hepatitis care.

Application Process

All applicants to the fellowship must apply via the ERAS system and must have completed an internal medicine residency in the United States. The program requires the following application materials:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Letters of Recommendation
• USMLE scores
• Medical School Transcripts
• Personal Statement

Additionally, prospective fellows must adhere to specific competitive requirements in terms of prior medical education and examination performance.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates (IMGs), specifically for the J-1 visa. This support is an integral part of the program's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive training environment.

Benefits & Compensation

Fellows are entitled to numerous benefits, including:

• Competitive annual salary ($79,000 for PGY-4; $83,000 for PGY-5)
• Medical, dental, and life insurance options
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• On-site child care services to support work-life balance
• Paid vacation and holiday
• Retirement savings plan options

Final Thoughts

Graduates of the Rochester General Hospital Infectious Diseases Fellowship are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in the field, equipped with broad clinical experience and research acumen. The program's unique setting, strong mentorship, and commitment to diversity make it an appealing choice for aspiring infectious disease specialists.