Scripps Clinic/Scripps Green Hospital Program

The Scripps Clinic and Scripps Green Hospital Rheumatology Fellowship Program is specifically structured for physicians aspiring to excel in academic rheumatology or clinical practice. Over the last 40 years, this fellowship has provided exemplary training across a wide array of rheumatic conditions, holding accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The program extends over two years and includes exceptional faculty and advanced research opportunities.

During this fellowship, fellows engage with a large volume of patient care, managing approximately 3,500 new patient referrals and over 14,000 return visits annually. There is also an option for additional training in pediatric rheumatology through Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego. Fellows have the chance to attend and present at city-wide rheumatology grand rounds, fostering a collaborative and educational environment.

The rheumatology division at Scripps Clinic encompasses seven full-time faculty members known for their clinical expertise and educational contributions. They provide care to a diverse patient population sourced from throughout the Southwest United States. The fellowship primarily takes place at the Torrey Pines campus but also involves caring for patients across five satellite clinics in the San Diego area. The program utilizes a common ambulatory electronic health record (AERH) that is interconnected with the electronic medical records (EMR) of all Scripps facilities, promoting seamless patient care.

Clinical Training

Fellows receive extensive hands-on experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Inpatient care involves offering consulting services for patients with various rheumatological disorders at Scripps Green Hospital, supervised by attending rheumatologists. Outpatient care predominantly occurs at Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines, supplemented by weekly continuity clinics where fellows manage their own patient panel.

The program emphasizes clinical training particularly in the first year, continuing through the second year, ensuring fellows take significant responsibility for their patients' care under faculty supervision. Additional training opportunities exist through affiliations with renowned institutes such as Rady Children’s Hospital and the Naval Medical Center San Diego, providing a broad base of clinical exposure.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research during their time in the program. The second year includes designated research time, allowing fellows to design and conduct original studies in clinical, translational, or basic science. The fellowship’s location provides access to premier research facilities, including the Scripps Research Institute (SRI) and the Scripps Translational Science Institute (TSRI), as well as several major research centers in La Jolla. Topics of research may involve immune regulation, vascular biology, drug design, and autoantibody mechanisms.

Educational Structure

Educational sessions are a vital part of the fellowship, featuring biweekly teaching conferences and a structured curriculum aiming to provide comprehensive learning experiences. Weekly discussions range from journal clubs to clinical case presentations and board review courses, ensuring fellows are up-to-date with the latest findings in rheumatology. The program also collaborates with UCSD for city-wide Rheumatology Grand Rounds, enhancing the fellowship's educational offerings.

Compensation and Benefits

Fellows at Scripps Clinic receive a competitive salary, starting at $88,544 in the PGY-IV year and $92,544 in the PGY-V year, which includes a $5,000 housing stipend. Additional benefits feature health and dental insurance, a wellness program, life and long-term disability insurance, and malpractice coverage while performing patient care duties.

Further benefits include an educational allowance for conferences and professional development, as well as generous leave policies that afford fellows 20 vacation days and six paid sick days each year. Support services like lab coat provision and access to a full-service cafeteria are also included to enhance the fellows’ experience.

Application Requirements

To apply for the fellowship, candidates are required to submit a completed application via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), along with a current curriculum vitae, personal statements, medical school transcripts, and endorsement letters totaling three, including one from a residency program director. The program does not operate its own J-1 or H-1 visa program; thus, candidates must secure a current California Physician's and Surgeon's License and meet all ECFMG certification requirements if applicable. A completed ACGME-accredited residency program is a prerequisite.

Competitiveness and Support for International Applicants

The program is recognized for its competitive nature in attracting qualified candidates, including DO and IMG applicants. Prospective fellows are encouraged to showcase their qualifications clearly through their application materials to enhance their prospects of acceptance.