Rush University Medical Center Program

The program at Rush University Medical Center offers a comprehensive Geriatric Medicine fellowship as a part of its Internal Medicine Training. This fellowship is designed to provide advanced clinical training in the care of older adults, encompassing a wide spectrum of geriatric medicine practices and principles.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the Geriatric Medicine fellowship emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach and includes rotations that span multiple specialties essential to the care of geriatric patients. 1 During the fellowship, physicians gain exposure to various care settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient units, and long-term care facilities, allowing them to engage directly with patients and apply geriatric principles in real-world scenarios.

Rotations

Fellows will participate in diverse rotations focusing on critical aspects of geriatric care, which may include:

• Consultation in comprehensive geriatric assessments
• Management of chronic illnesses prevalent in older adults
• Study of polypharmacy and medication management
• Palliative care and end-of-life issues
• Rehabilitation and transitional care from hospital to home

Additionally, there are chances for fellows to work alongside specialists in areas such as neurology, cardiology, and psychiatry, enhancing their expertise in managing complex geriatric syndromes.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal aspect of the training in the Geriatric Medicine fellowship. Fellows are encouraged to engage in research initiatives focused on aging and geriatric care, participating actively in studies that may contribute to improving clinical practices.2 The department supports research-focused education and mentorship, guiding fellows through the process of formulating research questions, design, and implementation.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program distinguishes itself with a strong commitment to health equity and community service. Rush University Medical Center has established numerous outreach partnerships with local communities to promote better health outcomes for older adults.3 Through these initiatives, fellows not only gain clinical experience but also understand the social determinants affecting the health of geriatric patients.

Triangle of Care

The program encourages a 'Triangle of Care' approach, which involves collaboration among fellows, attending physicians, and the healthcare team.4 This multidisciplinary framework ensures comprehensive patient assessments, tailored care plans, and the delivery of higher quality care to geriatric populations.

Training Sites

Fellows will train at multiple sites affiliated with Rush University Medical Center. Each site offers unique insights into the multifaceted aspects of geriatric care, facilitating abundant learning experiences. Training sites may include:

• Rush University Medical Center (main training site)
• Local community hospitals
• Nursing homes
• Outpatient clinics

These diverse training environments ensure that fellows are well-equipped to address the varying needs of geriatric patients.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Geriatric Medicine fellowship at Rush is considered highly competitive. Candidates are expected to meet stringent application criteria, which may include completion of an ACGME-accredited internal medicine or family medicine residency program.5

References from the USMLE or COMLEX medical licensing exams are typically required, with emphasis on strong performance in clinical rotations.

Visa Support

For international medical graduates, the program offers support for visa sponsorship through J-1 and H-1B visas.6 J-1 visas are commonly utilized for clinical training programs, while H-1B visas may be available for those qualifying under specific criteria.

Resident Life and Wellness

Understanding the demands of residency, particularly in the geriatric medicine subspecialty, the program focuses greatly on resident wellness. Various wellness initiatives are implemented, including social events, wellness retreats, and access to mental health resources, to help residents manage stress.7 The supportive environment is aimed at promoting both personal and professional well-being throughout the fellowship.