UMass Chan Medical School Program
Location:
Worcester, MASpecialty:
Infectious diseaseACGME Code:
1462421007Overview of the UMass Chan Medical School Infectious Diseases Fellowship
The Infectious Diseases Fellowship at UMass Chan Medical School is a prestigious program dedicated to training the next generation of experts in infectious diseases and immunology. The program is structured into two distinct tracks: the Clinical Scholar Track, which focuses on patient care, and the Academic Research Track, which emphasizes research excellence. This fellowship is well-regarded for its robust clinical training complemented by opportunities for groundbreaking research in innate immunity and other areas of infectious disease.
1Program Structure and Curriculum
The fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive training over two years for the Clinical Scholar Track and three years for the Academic Research Track. The training primarily involves inpatient consultation rotations along with a weekly outpatient clinic. In the first year, fellows typically spend around nine months on inpatient consultations while also engaging in outpatient rotations that cover various aspects of ID practice such as antibiotic stewardship and infection control.
1Second-year fellows will focus on continuing inpatient consultations while having time allocated for outpatient ID and research activities. Additionally, fellows have the flexibility to tailor aspects of their clinical or research training based on their interests and career goals, gaining invaluable experience in settings that include both the University and Memorial campuses.
10Clinical Rotations
The clinical aspect of the program involves rotations through several services, including General ID, Transplant ID, and HIV services. The University campus serves as a high-acuity trauma facility, exposing fellows to complex multidisciplinary cases. The outpatient ID clinic provides fellows with the opportunity to maintain continuity of care for patients, focusing predominantly on those with HIV/AIDS, refractory infections, and other significant health concerns.
16Non-clinical rotations introduce fellows to infection control, laboratory microbiology, and research. The expected schedules aim to ensure work-life balance while providing significant hands-on experience in managing various infectious disease challenges.
17Research Opportunities
The research component of the fellowship is robust, particularly for those enroled in the Academic Research Track. Fellows can explore various research interests under the supervision of renowned faculty experts who specialize in a wide range of infectious diseases, inflammation, and innate immunity. Research topics span from fundamental studies on pathogens like malaria to clinical studies addressing the management of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis.
12Moreover, the program is recognized for its commitment to advancing research in innate immunity, hosting events like annual symposiums that attract leaders in the field. Fellows are encouraged to initiate their research projects early in their fellowship to facilitate publication opportunities.
14Faculty and Mentorship
The faculty involved in the Infectious Diseases Fellowship is a diverse and accomplished group of professionals who provide comprehensive mentorship and guidance. Their expertise spans numerous sub-specialities in infectious diseases, enhancing the learning experience for fellows by facilitating exposure to various clinical scenarios and research methodologies.
3Fellows are expected to engage actively with faculty mentors to foster their development and explore the broad array of career possibilities within the field.
11Visa Sponsorship and Application Requirements
The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, typically favoring J-1 and H-1B visa types. Given that the fellowship attracts a competitive applicant pool, prospective candidates are encouraged to demonstrate strong credentials and relevant clinical experience.
18Applicants should be mindful of specific requirements, including but not limited to not having failed the Step exams on more than one occasion and being a recent medical school graduate. The program is particularly open to both DO and IMG candidates, increasing accessibility for diverse applicants.
9Competitiveness
The Infectious Diseases Fellowship at UMass Chan Medical School is known to be competitive, attracting exceptionally qualified candidates due to its reputation, research opportunities, and clinical training excellence. Candidates are encouraged to exhibit proficiency in both clinical and research realms to enhance their chances of selection.
8Conclusion
In summary, the UMass Chan Medical School's Infectious Diseases Fellowship offers a comprehensive program emphasizing clinical training, research expertise, and professional development, all within a diverse and supportive environment.
20Website
Director
Alina Adeel, MDFellowship Program Director Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,292First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents 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
