University of Maryland Program

Geriatric Medicine Fellowship Overview

The University of Maryland Geriatric Medicine Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive training program designed for qualified post-doctoral MD fellows. The program includes a traditional one-year clinical fellowship as well as a two-year VA-funded research track in Gerontology and Geriatrics, fostering the development of skills essential for both clinical practice and research in geriatrics.

The core faculty comes from the Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM), and includes a diverse group of professionals with extensive expertise in clinical geriatrics and aging research. This faculty is supplemented by a range of MD and PhD specialists from various departments within the University, including Neurology, Neuropsychology, Psychiatry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Social Work, and Physical Therapy, thus creating a rich interdisciplinary environment for learning.

Curriculum and Clinical Training

The clinical training consists of twelve one-month blocks covering various aspects of geriatric medicine, which include subacute inpatient care, consultations, outpatient clinics, long-term care, hospice and palliative care, and elective opportunities. Each fellow is required to engage in longitudinal continuity clinics at the Baltimore VA Medical Center and through sessions at Loch Raven CLC.

Training is further enhanced by the opportunity to interact with other medical specialties and by participating in didactic sessions, where lectures and presentations related to Geriatric Medicine take place. Board review sessions prepare fellows for necessary certification examinations, ensuring comprehensive knowledge of the field.

Training Sites

Fellows rotate through several prominent facilities, including:

• Baltimore VA Medical Center: This serves as a primary training site, offering services such as the Geriatric Evaluation and Management Unit (GEMU), consultation services, and specialized clinics. It encompasses a range of medical, surgical, and psychiatric services, delivering a well-rounded training experience.
3
• University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC): A major tertiary care facility with approximately 900 beds, UMMC supports around 30,000 inpatient admissions and 500,000 outpatient visits annually. This site provides comprehensive training across various medical domains and fosters collaboration with multiple healthcare professionals.
5
• Loch Raven Community Living Center (CLC): This on-site long-term care facility offers fellows exposure to traditional nursing home care, sub-acute care, rehabilitation, and hospice services. Fellows engage in direct patient care and learn about the functionalities of a long-term care facility.
5

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research as a vital component of training. The Baltimore VA hosts notable research centers such as the Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), which focuses on geriatric research pertinent to metabolism, genetics, and lifestyle interventions. Fellows are encouraged to participate in ongoing research projects, enabling them to contribute to significant advancements in the field of geriatrics.

Those in the Advanced Fellowship track benefit from mentorship that prepares them for academic careers, specializing in aging-related research. The program supports the development of research proposals, publications, and abstract presentations at national conferences.

Application Process and Requirements

Eligibility for the one-year clinical fellowship is specifically for individuals who have completed an accredited residency in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine and hold Board Certification or are Board Eligible. The program is open to graduates from international medical schools; however, they must have completed a residency in the United States and will only be considered on J-1 visas.

While applying, candidates must submit essential materials through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including a curriculum vitae, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and USMLE transcripts. The program typically offers about five positions each year, fostering a competitive application process. Communication regarding interviews and candidate status is facilitated via e-mail, and discounted accommodations are available for interviewees.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship salary is determined by the University of Maryland's Department of Graduate Medical Education, based on the postgraduate year (PGY) level of the fellow. In addition to competitive salaries, fellows are entitled to benefits consistent with those provided across medical fellowship programs.

Visa Support

The University of Maryland Geriatric Medicine Fellowship Program is supportive of international fellows. The program accepts applications from candidates holding J-1 visas who have completed their residency training in the United States.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The fellowship program emphasizes inclusivity and is open to applicants from diverse backgrounds. It maintains strong criteria for admission while promoting a diverse cohort of fellows, fostering a learning environment enriched by various perspectives.