Rutgers Health/Newark Beth Israel Medical Center Program
Location:
Newark, NJSpecialty:
Infectious diseaseACGME Code:
1463321204The Infectious Diseases Fellowship at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is structured as a two-year program aimed at training the next generation of infectious disease specialists. The program emphasizes a comprehensive clinical experience in the diagnosis, management, and prevention of infectious diseases, harnessing evidence-based methodologies and driven by humanistic and professional values. Residents are expected to develop proficiency in core clinical skills such as patient interviewing, physical examination, differential diagnosis, and the application of therapeutic options and counseling strategies 1.
This fellowship stands out due to its affiliation with the robust resources and interprofessional collaborations provided by Rutgers University, which enhances the educational experience for fellows 1. The program is fully accredited by the ACGME, assuring quality education and training aligned with current standards in the field of infectious diseases.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is carefully designed to cover a breadth of topics and experiences. Fellows will encounter various infectious disease cases, including but not limited to heart and lung transplant infections, sepsis, bacterial and fungal infections, and viral infections like HIV/AIDS and COVID-19. The curriculum allows fellows to partake in sub-specialized areas, such as antibiotic stewardship, disease prevention, and public health initiatives 3.
A unique aspect of the fellowship is a dedicated microbiology lab rotation at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. This rotation equips fellows with practical skills in diagnostic technologies relevant to infectious disease 3. The outpatient practices include a nationally recognized Ryan White funded HIV program, making it a significant component of the clinical training for fellows.
Rotations and Clinical Experience
The fellowship encompasses a variety of clinical rotations, including inpatient and outpatient settings. The fellows will assist internal medicine residents during ID rotations, enhancing their teaching skills 3. The program also includes extensive outpatient experiences across several clinics, such as the Hepatitis B & C Virus Clinic and a Travel-Related Clinic. These settings serve as platforms for fellows to apply their knowledge and expertise in real-world scenarios.
Fellows generally start with a first year that focuses heavily on inpatient infectious disease consultations and inpatient management, followed by a second year emphasizing outpatient management and specialized rotations. The specific rotation schedule will be tailored to align with the fellows' interests and career goals 3.
Research Opportunities
Research is an integral part of the fellowship, with numerous avenues for fellows to engage in scholarly activities. Past fellows have contributed to peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and abstracts presented at national conferences. The program encourages fellows to participate in ongoing research, which can cover topics relevant to clinical and epidemiological aspects of infectious diseases 6.
Fellows are encouraged to engage in investigative projects that not only contribute to their CI competence but also enhance the institution's clinical knowledge base. This active engagement in research prepares fellows for potential careers in academic medicine, should they desire.
Visa Support and Sponsorship
The program offers visa support, primarily sponsoring J-1 visas for international medical graduates. This provision reflects an openness to fellows who come from diverse international backgrounds, further enriching the fellowship's learning environment 5.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The application process is competitive, with a requirement for potential candidates to submit a full application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applicants must provide three letters of recommendation, including one from a program director, USMLE or COMLEX scores, and a personal statement. Additionally, graduates are expected to have completed an accredited residency before applying 4.
In terms of competitiveness, the program is known for being DO/IMG-friendly, welcoming applications from diverse educational backgrounds. There may be specific thresholds related to examination performance, so prospective fellows should check detailed program specifications for eligibility 4.
Salary and Benefits
Fellowship salaries are competitive, with PGY 4 fellows earning $82,139 and PGY 5 fellows receiving $84,320. Additionally, fellows benefit from vacation time, sick leave, health insurance, professional liability coverage, and life insurance 7. The program also encompasses provisions for various leaves of absence in accordance with institutional policies.
Fellows are provided with essential resources, including meal allowances, on-call housing, and complimentary parking, all designed to support their training experience.
Website
Director
Madhu Suryadevara, MDID Fellowship Program Director Appointed Since December 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
8hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,139First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Newark, NJ
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Newark, NJ
Newark, NJ is a city rich in history and culture. Here are some aspects to consider about living in Newark:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Newark has a reputation for having a higher crime rate compared to other cities. While efforts have been made to improve safety, it's important to be vigilant.
- Fun Activities: Newark offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city is home to the Newark Museum, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and Prudential Center.
- Climate: Newark experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Newark is a diverse city, with a population that includes a mix of African American, Hispanic, and Caucasian residents.
- Education: Newark is home to several universities and colleges, including Rutgers University and New Jersey Institute of Technology.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Newark is relatively high compared to national averages, especially in terms of housing costs.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Newark is approximately 9 miles from New York City, which can be reached in about 30-40 minutes by car (depending on traffic). New York City offers additional opportunities for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Cultural diversity, proximity to New York City, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate, higher cost of living.