University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson Program

The Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Fellowship Program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson offers a comprehensive training experience accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program is designed to develop knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the field of endocrinology, supported by a dedicated faculty and a rich research environment. The fellowship emphasizes professional development, providing tailored training to enhance knowledge and independent practice in both academic and private settings.

The faculty and staff engage closely with fellows to encourage inquiry, improve patient care, and explore new research opportunities in endocrinology while delivering high-quality education. The program aims to inspire future leaders in the field, enabling graduates to become competent and compassionate physicians in endocrinology and its subspecialties 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the fellowship consists of two years of extensive clinical training. This structure is designed to deliver a diverse range of experiences and learning opportunities across multiple training sites in Tucson. Each fellow participates in weekly didactic sessions scheduled during protected academic time, which are fundamental to their educational experience.

The program emphasizes diversity in exposure across four affiliated training sites, allowing fellows to gain experience in various healthcare environments. These include:

• Banner – University Medical Center South: The primary outpatient care facility for endocrinology, providing interprofessional care that includes physicians, pharmacists, nurse practitioners, and health coaches. The center features modern medical facilities and a large Diabetes Prevention and Education Center, enhancing the educational experience for both fellows and patients.
• Banner – University Medical Center Tucson: This state-of-the-art teaching hospital serves as the primary inpatient facility. It is notable as a Level I Trauma Center and is nationally recognized in several specialties, providing an excellent setting for fellows to gain rich clinical experience.
• Southern Arizona Veterans Affairs Health Care System (SAVAHCS): Here, fellows participate in continuity clinics and inpatient consult services for a large veteran population, incorporating comprehensive care into their training.
• Banner - University Medical Center North: This outpatient services center offers a transition from inpatient to outpatient care and facilitates specialty care for diabetic patients, allowing fellows to engage in hands-on procedures and management of complex cases.

The fellowship also adapts its format in response to ongoing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing hybrid clinic schedules that include both telehealth and in-person appointments 2.

Application Process and Requirements

Candidates interested in the Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Fellowship Program must complete an application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Essential qualifications include:

• The successful completion of a three-year ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency.
• U.S. Citizenship or a valid residency visa; the program does not support H1-B visas; J-1 visas are accepted.
• International medical graduates must provide proof of passing the FMGEMS exam and a standard ECFMG certificate.

Application documentation typically includes a curriculum vitae (CV), three letters of recommendation (one from the internal medicine residency program director), USMLE or COMLEX scores, medical school transcripts, and a personal statement. Applications are generally recommended to be submitted by July, with the interview process commencing shortly thereafter. It is also advisable to have completed the “Step III” exam to enhance competitiveness in the application process 5.

Competitiveness

The fellowship at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson is considered to be competitive. The program is welcoming to both U.S. medical graduates and international medical graduates, increasing its accessibility to candidates from diverse backgrounds. The program's strong emphasis on educational rigor and impactful research opportunities further enhances its appeal 4.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship offers a competitive salary schedule for fellows, along with a range of benefits aimed at supporting their professional and personal well-being. Benefits include:

• Health and dental insurance
• Professional liability insurance
• Life insurance
• 20 days of paid vacation
• Educational leave and travel allowance for attending national meetings (with departmental approval)
• Access to medical center library facilities
• Free parking and dedicated workspace for fellows

Additional benefits are available, contributing to a supportive training environment 6.