University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson Program

University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson Infectious Disease Fellowship Program

The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson offers an Infectious Disease Fellowship program that is designed to train the next generation of infectious disease physicians. The program focuses on developing excellent clinical skills, research opportunities, and strong mentorship for its fellows, who gain extensive experience in various aspects of infectious diseases management and treatment.

Curriculum Overview

The Infectious Diseases Fellowship is structured over a two-year period, with an optional third year available for additional research training. The curriculum integrates a diverse clinical experience at multiple training sites including Banner – University Medical Center Tucson, Banner – UMC South, and the Tucson VA Medical Center. Fellows participate in managing a wide range of infectious diseases, enhancing both their inpatient and ambulatory care skills.

During the fellowship, specific training includes:

• Management of common infectious diseases and associated conditions.
• Education in antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention.
• Consultation services and direct patient care within specialized clinics such as the Petersen HIV Clinics and Valley Fever Center for Excellence.
• A comprehensive approach towards care for HIV-infected patients.
• Hands-on experience with research relating to clinical practices, epidemiology, and novel treatment protocols.

Rotations and Training Sites

Fellows undergo comprehensive rotations across various settings, including:

• Banner – University Medical Center Tucson: A tertiary care facility with access to advanced clinical resources.
• Banner – UMC South: Focused on community health needs and diverse patient demographics.
• Tucson VA Medical Center: Offers unique opportunities to serve veteran populations with varied infectious diseases.

The training emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and direct mentorship from expert faculty in the field.

Research Opportunities

The program is supported by a strong research foundation, with faculty engaging in groundbreaking studies within infectious diseases. Research possibilities encompass:

• Ongoing studies focused on HIV, including Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and treatment efficacy.
• Investigations into Valley Fever (coccidioidomycosis) with aims at treatment advancements and preventing the disease.
• Studies examining Chagas disease, tuberculosis, and transplant-related infections, among others.

Fellows are encouraged to tailor their research activities to align with career aspirations while contributing to ongoing projects at the university.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Several distinct features of the program include:

• A robust HIV clinic funded by the Ryan White Program, which provides comprehensive care for HIV/AIDS patients.
• A dedicated Valley Fever Center for Excellence focused on addressing and researching the endemic coccidioidomycosis in Southern Arizona.
• Community outreach initiatives that integrate education on infectious diseases and public health readiness.

Competitive Landscape and Application Requirements

The Infectious Disease Fellowship at the University of Arizona is regarded as a competitive program. Applicants typically should have completed an Internal Medicine residency and must be board-eligible or board-certified. The program's commitment to training diverse applicants ensures that it is open to various backgrounds, including U.S.-based DO and IMG candidates. Special application requirements may include:

• A maximum of one failed STEP exam.
• Consideration of the year of graduation, which may influence eligibility.

Visa Support

The program offers full visa support for international applicants, including sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types. This facilitates participation for international medical graduates seeking to advance their careers in infectious diseases.

Living in Tucson

Tucson, Arizona, offers a vibrant living environment for residents. Known for its warm climate and natural beauty, Tucson features numerous outdoor activities and cultural events, making it an ideal backdrop for training and personal development. Options include hiking, biking, and engaging in community events that celebrate the local culture.