Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital Program

The Gastroenterology Fellowship at Trinity Health Ann Arbor offers a comprehensive and clinically focused education designed to train fellows into expert gastroenterologists. Established in 2021, this program is recognized for its dynamic curriculum and mentoring structure, which enables the development of clinical skills and research capabilities required for the specialty.

Program Overview

The mission of the program is to cultivate inquisitive, expert clinicians who excel in endoscopy and critical thinking, all while providing compassionate care. The program is directed by a trio of experienced faculty, ensuring fellows receive robust education and hands-on training in various clinical environments.1

Curriculum Details

The curriculum is structured around a core program and multi-disciplinary approach that encompasses all areas of clinical gastroenterology and hepatology. Training takes place primarily at the main campus in Ann Arbor, supplemented by experiences at affiliated satellite hospitals including Chelsea Hospital and Trinity Health sites in Livonia and Livingston.5

Fellows will engage in a weekly Gastroenterology continuity clinic spanning all three years of training and take part in specialty clinics focused on Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Hepatology. In the second year, fellows have a dedicated month on the liver transplant consult service, and in the third year, they rotate through outpatient hepatology clinics at the University of Michigan.5

Endoscopic Training

Throughout the fellowship, fellows will receive in-depth training in endoscopic procedures, with opportunities to perform advanced procedures such as Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound in their senior year. Weekly didactic lectures, multi-disciplinary conferences, and clinical practice meetings ensure that fellows’ educational needs are continually met.5

Research and Mentorship

Research is a significant component of the fellowship. Each fellow is paired with a mentor and will be expected to conduct a research project during their training, with strong encouragement to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals or present at national meetings.5

Application Process

The program offers two fellowship positions annually, and applications are accepted exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Candidates must exhibit completion of an ACGME accredited Internal Medicine Residency by the application deadline, alongside passing scores on all relevant USMLE or COMLEX examinations.3

Eligibility also extends to graduates from LCME or AOA accredited medical schools, or those who are ECFMG certified if their medical education was completed outside the United States. Crucially, the program sponsors J-1 visas but does not accommodate H-1B visa sponsorship.3

Competitiveness and Requirements

The fellowship is highly competitive, attracting a wide array of applicants. Candidates must submit a strong personal statement demonstrating their commitment to gastroenterology, three letters of recommendation, and a letter from their residency program director.3

Living in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti

The Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital is located on the border of Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor, two vibrant communities enriched with cultural and educational opportunities. The area is known for its diverse dining options, outdoor activities, and proximity to both Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan, providing fellows a lively and engaging environment.2

With an array of parks, recreational trails, and the Huron River for kayaking and canoeing, the natural beauty of the surroundings complements the educational experience. Ann Arbor, frequently regarded as one of the best college towns, fosters a thriving arts scene with various local events throughout the year.2

Fellowship Experience

Fellows at Trinity Health Ann Arbor will find the program not only enriching professionally but also personally satisfying due to the supportive environment fostered by the faculty and the diverse medical community present.1