University of Maryland Program

The Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Center is designed to prepare fellows for a successful career in this specialized field. The program incorporates both clinical and research components to develop the necessary knowledge and skills in managing pediatric patients with gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary disorders.

The fellowship spans a duration of three years, structured to provide comprehensive training in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. This fellowship is notable for its access to a diverse patient population across three satellite locations, along with the primary downtown campus. Such diversity allows fellows to experience a wide range of conditions, enhancing their clinical exposure and expertise.

Curriculum Overview

The training includes a rigorous clinical curriculum, requiring fellows to engage in clinical rotations that emphasize the management of multiple gastrointestinal diseases from infancy to young adulthood. The program aligns with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) requirements and prepares trainees thoroughly for board certification through the American Board of Pediatrics.

Throughout the fellowship, fellows will also participate in developing a research project, which could culminate in a publication. Research opportunities allow for specialization in various areas, including celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease, furthering the fellows' academic development.

Clinical Training

The fellowship's first year is concentrated in clinical training, reinforcing the acquisition of gastroenterology-specific skills. In their first year, fellows rotate primarily through inpatient settings, which includes working in collaboration with pediatric residents and attending physicians. This foundational experience is essential for identifying and managing disease processes, promoting the fellows’ growth in teaching and leadership roles.

During the second and third years, fellows will continue to refine their clinical competencies, managing complex outpatient cases while also taking on supervisory roles. They will maintain continuity in clinic settings, allowing them to build long-term relationships with patients and families. Each fellow is paired with a faculty mentor who provides guidance throughout the program.

Research Component

Research is a pivotal element of the fellowship, as all fellows are required to complete a scholarly project. This includes participation in a scholarly core curriculum focused on essential topics such as biostatistics, research study design, and ethical considerations. Fellows are supported by mentors and a scholarship oversight committee throughout the research process, ensuring an academic workload that cultivates their investigative skills.

Salary and Benefits

Fellows receive a comprehensive benefits package, including professional liability insurance, health and life insurance, and retirement benefits. The fellowship also stipulates an educational stipend intended to assist with expenses incurred while attending national meetings, further promoting professional development.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The fellowship can sponsor applicants under the J-1 visa program; however, H-1B visas are not accepted. The program is selective, which makes it competitive in nature. Candidates must provide a completed ERAS application, curriculum vitae, personal statements, and letters of recommendation to be considered for an interview.

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates need to have completed an ACGME-accredited pediatric residency. Additionally, pediatric in-training exam scores and proof of vaccinations are required. The walkthrough for the positional match is managed through the National Resident Matching Program, further adding to the rigorous selection process.

Special Considerations

Candidates should adhere to any specific application requirements, such as guidelines on graduation year and maximum allowed failures for board examinations. This aspect is essential as the program emphasizes diligence in both academic and clinical competencies.