Rutgers Health/Newark Beth Israel Medical Center Program
Location:
Newark, NJSpecialty:
NephrologyACGME Code:
1483321179The Nephrology Fellowship at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is a comprehensive two-year training program tailored to develop future leaders in the field of nephrology. This fellowship represents a collaboration between Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBIMC) and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), giving trainees a unique blend of experiences within both an urban and suburban patient landscape.
Throughout the fellowship, fellows are exposed to a diverse array of clinical conditions, enhancing their ability to manage patients with various renal disorders. The program aligns itself with the recommendations established by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), ensuring fellows meet all necessary training standards for eligibility to sit for subspecialty boards in nephrology 1.
Curriculum and Rotations
The Nephrology Fellowship spans 24 months, with a significant emphasis on hands-on clinical training. This includes:
- 10 months of inpatient nephrology consultation
- 4 months in the inpatient transplant service
- 2 months dedicated to research
- 2 months of chronic dialysis rounds
- 2 months in ambulatory settings
- 2 months of elective rotations
- 1 month of vacation each year
Fellows rotate evenly between Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Daily rounds involve fellow engagement with renal biopsies, laboratory results, and imaging interpretation, enhanced by weekly conferences and journal discussions. Regular didactic sessions cover various essential nephrology topics, including renal pathology and board review preparation 3.
Research Opportunities
During their tenure, fellows are provided with a structured research block, which allows them to engage in scholarly activities critical for developing a robust understanding of nephrology. This exposure is vital for those aiming to contribute to the academic community or pursue advanced research endeavors in medicine 3.
Benefits and Compensation
The fellowship offers competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits aimed at supporting the well-being of the fellows:
- Fellow Salary: PGY-4 - $82,139; PGY-5 - $84,320
- Four weeks (20 working days) of vacation annually
- Professional liability insurance covering all duties performed within the fellowship scope
- Life insurance equivalent to one times the annual salary
- Short- and long-term disability insurance options
- Health insurance coverage effective upon fellowship start
- Free parking available at the medical center
- Uniforms provided, including lab coats and scrubs
Understanding the policies regarding leave of absence (LOA) is essential for fellows, allowing for self-care, family care, child care, and personal leave, with specific protections and options 2.
Faculty and Mentorship
The fellowship is led by accomplished faculty members who possess extensive backgrounds in nephrology. The mentorship provided is invaluable, as faculty engage closely with fellows, facilitating clinical education and professional development throughout the program. Regular engagement with senior staff ensures fellows gain perspective and guidance during clinical rotations and beyond 4.
Application Process
Application for the Nephrology Fellowship is facilitated through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Prospective fellows must fulfill specific requirements, including:
- Passing USMLE Steps 1 and 2 (both Clinical Knowledge and Clinical Skills)
- Passing Step 3
- Providing three letters of recommendation
- Submitting a Medical Student Performance Evaluation and medical school transcript
- Including a personal statement
- Providing an Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) status report if applicable
This detailed application process underscores the program's commitment to selecting candidates who are well-prepared for advanced training in nephrology 5.
Visa Support
The program is committed to supporting international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides visa assistance for fellows who require sponsorship to pursue their training in the United States, ensuring that specialists from diverse backgrounds can enhance their education in nephrology at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.
Competitiveness
The nephrology fellowship is known to be competitive, welcoming applications from both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates. The program is structured to be both DO and IMG friendly, emphasizing a rigorous evaluation process that seeks candidates who demonstrate excellence in clinical skills and knowledge.
Website
Director
Heather R Lefkowitz, MDProgram Director Appointed Since March 2014Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,139First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.8XResidents 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.
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