UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
GastroenterologyACGME Code:
1442421008The UMass Chan Medical School Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellowship Program is a renowned three-year training experience focused on developing the next generation of academic gastroenterologists. This program is dedicated to providing a comprehensive foundation in clinical gastroenterology and hepatology, emphasizing research and teaching, which is integral to the educational environment.
Program Overview
Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, the program offers fellows the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant clinical environment. It features rotations across multiple campuses, allowing exposure to a diverse patient population, which enhances the training experience. The fellowship program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to patient care and fosters collaboration among various disciplines, such as pathology, interventional radiology, and surgical services, facilitating an integrated approach to complex GI pathologies 1.
Curriculum
The core curriculum encompasses a variety of learning experiences, including inpatient consults, clinic discussions, lectures, and academic conferences. Fellows participate in division-wide conferences, presenting cases and engaging with faculty on diverse topics to enhance their educational experience. They are required to give presentations throughout the year and participate in various fellow-led conferences, including Journal Club and Morbidity and Mortality meetings 11.
Rotations
The academic year is segmented into 13 four-week blocks, incorporating both inpatient and outpatient rotations to provide a robust clinical experience. First-year fellows focus heavily on inpatient care, while second and third-year fellows enjoy more longitudinal outpatient management opportunities. There are specific consult services at multiple hospitals, allowing fellows to build upon their clinical experience as they advance through the program 16.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are encouraged to engage in their own research projects, under the mentorship of faculty. This strong emphasis on research includes clinical trials and quality improvement projects focused on evolving treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic pancreatitis, and other relevant topics. Additionally, fellows are supported in pursuing scholarship outside the division, facilitating a well-rounded research experience 24.
Fellowship Structure
Fellows are actively involved in various procedures, including endoscopic interventions, which are a critical component of gastroenterology training. The UMass Memorial Medical Center boasts a high volume of procedures, ensuring fellows achieve the necessary competency before graduation. Fellows also have the unique opportunity to participate in advanced therapeutic procedures and receive exposure to emerging techniques like endoscopic ultrasound and peroral endoscopic myotomy 17.
Electives and Mentorship
Fellowship training at UMass is bolstered by a variety of electives that span multiple specialties, including colorectal surgery, radiology, and surgical oncology. Fellows are assigned a faculty mentor who provides guidance throughout their training, allowing them to tailor their educational experience according to personal interests and career goals 16.
Unique Program Aspects
The program is committed to advancing the field of gastroenterology through cutting-edge clinical trials and pioneering research initiatives. Notably, UMass Memorial Medical Center has been recognized as a National Pancreas Foundation Center Hospital, underscoring its dedication to excellence in patient care and education in gastroenterology 1.
Visa and Application Competitiveness
The Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellowship Program at UMass is competitive, attracting a diverse group of candidates, including DO and IMG applicants. The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas for international medical graduates, allowing them to pursue their training in the United States. Special application requirements include a focus on recent medical graduates and a policy regarding the maximum number of failed USMLE Step examinations 3.
Recent Graduates and Careers
Fellows successfully completing the program often continue their careers in esteemed academic institutions as well as private practice, demonstrating the program's excellence in preparing its graduates for diverse career paths across the gastroenterology landscape 6.
Website
Director
Krunal Patel, MDProgram Director / Assistant Professor of Medicine Appointed Since January 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$80,384First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.9XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
