Tulane University Program

Program Overview

The Tulane University School of Medicine offers an ACGME accredited two-year Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Fellowship Program. This program aims to prepare fellows for a career in either academic or clinical endocrinology through comprehensive training in patient care, teaching, and research. Upon completion of the fellowship, trainees become eligible for subspecialty board certification in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism.

Throughout the program, fellows receive extensive clinical and inpatient training across multiple affiliated teaching hospitals, including University Medical Center New Orleans (UMCNO), East Jefferson General Hospital (EJGH), and the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (VA).

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide basic and advanced knowledge in endocrinology through hands-on experience and academic instruction. Trauma cases and endocrine emergencies are routinely managed at UMCNO, which serves as a level 1 trauma center. Here, fellows participate in a variety of outpatient clinics that address a wide scope of general endocrinology medical needs. The curriculum also incorporates training and involvement with interdisciplinary teams to promote holistic patient care.

Fellows are expected to interact with residents and medical students in a teaching capacity, further reinforcing their own training through this mentorship. They conduct presentations and educational sessions intended for varied audiences, including presentations at national scientific meetings.

Training Sites

The fellowship training is conducted at key facilities that each provide unique learning opportunities. The main sites include:

• University Medical Center New Orleans (UMCNO): A busy trauma center, known for its breadth of care including handling significant endocrine emergencies.
• East Jefferson General Hospital (EJGH): A private facility acclaimed for its specialized medical treatments, including advanced healthcare services in a community-centered environment.
• Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (VA): This facility offers extensive care for veterans, allowing fellows to encounter a diverse patient population with various endocrine disorders.
• Tulane’s Center for Clinical Research (TCCR): Supports the translation of research into clinical practice, providing a platform for fellows to engage in community health research initiatives.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to partake in substantial research from the outset of their training. Although there is no dedicated research rotation, the fellowship integrates research activities as part of the educational experience. Fellows are involved in ongoing studies led by faculty who are distinguished in their respective fields. Participation in research is not limited to clinical studies but extends to projects supported by the NIH, offering avenues for scholarly publication and presentations at national conferences.

Research topics may include a range of endocrine conditions and the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. This allows fellows to contribute meaningfully to advancements in endocrinology.

Special Application Requirements

Applicants for the fellowship must have graduated from an ACGME accredited medical institution and be board eligible in internal medicine. Other requirements for application include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• A Personal Statement
• Medical School Transcript
• USMLE Certified Transcript of Scores
• Photo (passport size preferable)
• ECFMG Certificate (if applicable)

While J1 visas are sponsored by the program, applicants are advised that incomplete documentation may cause delays in the review process.

Competitiveness and Visa Support

The Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Fellowship at Tulane is known to be competitive, especially for those holding DO or IMG status. The program's preference for J1 visa sponsorship aids international medical graduates in participating in this rigorous training. Candidates are encouraged to ensure that their applications meet all specific criteria to enhance their chances of acceptance.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program stands out due to its multifaceted approach to medical training. It encompasses:

• Endocrine University: A yearly event at Mayo Clinic, offering advanced training topics relevant to clinical practice.
• Monthly Tumor Board Meetings: Collaborative conferences that allow fellows to present cases and discuss complex endocrine pathologies with multiple specialties.
• The Endocrine Society In-Service Exam: A self-assessment program that prepares fellows for the ABIM certifying exam.