Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program

The Rheumatology Fellowship Program at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School provides an intensive and comprehensive training experience for candidates aspiring to become experts in the field of rheumatology. Established in 2018, the program emphasizes both clinical care and educational excellence across diverse patient populations at its training sites, including University Hospital and the East Orange Veterans Hospital.

Curriculum and Schedule

The curricular structure encompasses core rotations and continuity clinics primarily at the VA Medical Center and University Hospital. Traditional activities include:

• Continuity clinics and inpatient rotations at the VA Medical Center.
• Weekly didactics including Journal Club, core didactic sessions, and board review.
• Regular conferences such as Rheumatology Clinical Pathology and Grand Rounds.
• Monthly musculoskeletal ultrasound didactics.

The program provides fellowship candidates with the opportunity to attend major national meetings such as those hosted by the American College of Rheumatology, further enhancing their exposure to cutting-edge research and clinical practices.1

Faculty

Fellowship candidates learn from a diverse and highly qualified faculty who are board-certified specialists in various rheumatologic conditions. The program promotes a close mentorship environment where fellows interact closely with faculty members, contributing to a personalized training experience.2

Application Process and Requirements

Applications to the fellowship are accepted exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Candidates must fulfill specific requirements, including:

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency or a valid ECFMG certificate with the CSA examination for international medical graduates.
• Sponsorship for J1 visas is available if needed, although applicants should seek ECFMG sponsorship independently.

Interview invitations are sent via email, and interviews take place from August to October. Candidates are assessed on their clinical competencies and experiences, along with collaborative capabilities.3

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship. All fellows are mandated to engage in a research project that spans their training duration, allowing them to either create their studies or participate in ongoing ones. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches to research, leveraging resources within Rutgers to publish and present findings in esteemed journals and conferences regularly.4

Training Sites

Fellows undergo clinical training primarily at:

• University Hospital: This is a Level 1 Trauma Center with extensive inpatient services. It serves as a crucial resource for the fellowship, providing a rich clinical environment for hands-on training.
• The VA Medical Center: Located nearby, this center emphasizes outpatient rheumatology, allowing fellows to manage diverse patient cases that ideally complement those seen at University Hospital.5

Visa Support

The Rheumatology Fellowship Program can sponsor J1 visas for international medical graduates, facilitating the training of competent individuals from various backgrounds, thereby enriching the diversity of the fellowship community.6

Competitiveness and Selection Criteria

As a competitive program seeking talent in rheumatology, candidates are encouraged to present strong applications that highlight relevant experiences and competencies. All candidates must pass background checks deemed favorable by Rutgers prior to their entrance into the program.7

Unique Aspects

A distinctive feature of this fellowship is its dedication to musculoskeletal ultrasound training, ensuring that fellows receive structured didactics and supervised scanning opportunities with expert faculty. Additionally, fellows are encouraged to participate in certification courses to further enhance their practical skills.8

Furthermore, the program fosters a culture of research and quality improvement, necessitating fellows' involvement in quality assurance projects as part of their training curriculum. This comprehensive approach to education not only prepares fellows to be clinically competent but also equips them with the essential tools for lifelong learning and teaching in the field of rheumatology.9