Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program

The Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Gastroenterology Fellowship is an ACGME-accredited program aimed at developing well-rounded gastroenterologists over three years. The fellows are exposed to a diverse array of luminal cases at a large university referral center and specialize in cases from the state’s largest liver transplant center. This dual exposure not only enhances the fellows' clinical acumen but also prepares them for various roles in the community and academia.

The program emphasizes the importance of consultative medicine, evidence-based endoscopy, and collaborative interdisciplinary teamwork, supported by a dedicated faculty who are committed to teaching and mentorship. Graduates of the program are well-respected in the community or in academic and teaching roles due to the robust training they receive.

Training Sites

The fellowship utilizes clinical, laboratory, and research resources from multiple institutions, including University Hospital (Rutgers NJMS), East Orange Veteran's Administration Hospital, and Hackensack University Medical Center. This broad clinical exposure allows fellows to treat a diverse patient population, thereby honing both technical and clinical skills essential for any aspiring gastroenterologist.

Curriculum and Rotations

The structured curriculum spans three years: the first-year fellow immerses in consultations and inpatient endoscopy at high-volume special procedure units, while also engaging in outpatient gastroenterology through continuity clinics. In the second year, the focus shifts towards general outpatient endoscopy, with increasing responsibilities in pre-procedure, peri-procedure, and post-procedure governance. By the third year, fellow expertise is further developed through advanced and therapeutic endoscopy experiences, with exposure to techniques such as endoscopic ultrasound and ERCP. Research activities are integrated throughout, allowing fellows to implement investigational projects aimed at publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national meetings.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are allocated five to six months of dedicated time for research and elective opportunities. These research projects can range from basic science to prospective clinical trials. Mentorship is readily available, helping fellows navigate their research endeavors efficiently and effectively.

Conferences and Educational Activities

The program hosts a variety of conferences including Pathology Conference, Journal Club, Board Review, Clinical Case Conference, Research Conference, and Specialty Lectures among others. These conferences are instrumental in providing fellows with comprehensive background knowledge and current advancements in gastroenterology. Attendance at one funded educational conference yearly is also encouraged, fostering further participation in the academic community.

Fellowship Application Process

The Rutgers Gastroenterology Fellowship accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants are required to be board-eligible in Internal Medicine and must submit several documents including a valid ECFMG certificate, three letters of recommendation, a CV, and USMLE test scores. The fellowship is competitive and typically favors those with a strong background in internal medicine.

Visa Support and Requirements

The program is supportive of international medical graduates and can sponsor H-1B and J-1 visas. Applicants should be aware of specific eligibility criteria that may include year of graduation from medical school and acceptable USMLE scores.

Competitiveness and Application Considerations

As a highly competitive program, the Rutgers Gastroenterology Fellowship attracts a diverse applicant pool, including both US graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program is known to be friendly towards DO graduates and IMGs, which diversifies the training environment further. Applicants are carefully evaluated, considering their clinical experiences and academic achievements.

Current Fellows

The program includes a cohort of current fellows who come from various backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences and interests to the fellowship. This diversity enhances peer learning and promotes a robust educational environment.

Special Application Requirements

The fellowship has a few notable application requirements including a valid ECFMG certificate, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and candidates must be board eligible in Internal Medicine. The program also has specific policies regarding prior residency experiences and acceptable USMLE test failures.