United Health Services Hospitals Program

The Geriatric Medicine Fellowship at United Health Services Hospitals Program is designed to train residents in the complex care needs of elderly patients through a comprehensive and interactive curriculum. The fellowship offers a robust educational experience that integrates didactic learning, clinical practice, and research opportunities in a supportive environment.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum is structured to cover a wide range of competencies necessary for the effective practice of geriatric medicine. It includes opportunities for inpatient, outpatient, and home-based care, with a focus on promoting optimal health and quality of life for older adults. The curriculum emphasizes training in the following areas:

• Geriatric assessment and management
• Chronic disease management
• Transitional care
• Palliative care and end-of-life issues
• Interdisciplinary collaboration in care
• Patient-centered care approaches

Fellows participate in weekly didactic sessions, including case discussions, journal clubs, and grand rounds. These sessions are designed to foster critical thinking and keep fellows updated with the latest advancements in geriatric medicine. Research and scholarly activities are encouraged, with the goal of producing work suitable for presentation at national conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Rotations and Clinical Training

The fellowship provides extensive clinical exposure through diverse rotations. Rotations may include:

• Geriatrics inpatient management
• Outpatient geriatrics
• Long-term care facilities
• Home care services
• Palliative care clinics

These rotations allow fellows to work closely with experienced faculty and interdisciplinary teams, honing their skills in managing the unique challenges that arise in geriatric patients.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in research projects aiming at improving care for elderly patients. They can collaborate with faculty mentors on topics related to geriatric medicine, palliative care, and healthcare disparities among older adults. Research training includes guidance on study design, statistical methods, and grant writing.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinctive feature of the fellowship is its commitment to fostering leadership and advocacy skills among fellows. The program encourages participation in community outreach initiatives, allowing fellows to contribute to improving geriatric care standards in the community. Opportunities for advocacy and involvement in policy-making efforts at the local and national levels are also promoted.

Training Sites

The program encompasses a variety of training sites including:

• United Health Services Hospitals
• Community clinics
• Long-term care facilities
• Home health services

Each site provides fellows with a unique perspective on geriatric care, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Visa Support

The program sponsors J-1 visas for international medical graduates, making it accessible to a diverse group of applicants. Support for visa processes is provided to ensure compliance with all requirements.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Geriatric Medicine Fellowship emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, making it friendly for osteopathic and international medical graduates (IMGs). Candidates who have graduated from medical school within the last five years are preferred, and it is essential that applicants have good standing in medical school and a solid clinical background.

The suitable candidates for this fellowship typically have a strong interest in geriatric medicine and demonstrate potential for leadership through previous volunteer or work experiences in related areas.

Personal Development and Benefits

All fellows receive guidance and mentorship from a wide range of faculty, allowing for individual professional growth. Benefits include competitive salaries, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and access to wellness programs aimed at supporting the physical and mental well-being of residents and fellows.