University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program

The University of New Mexico School of Medicine Program in Gastroenterology at Albuquerque offers an exceptional fellowship focused on the diagnosis and treatment of complex digestive diseases. The program prides itself on its world-class clinical and research training, preparing future leaders in the field.

Program Overview

This three-year fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive training through a blend of clinical practice, research engagement, and mentorship from experienced faculty. Fellows are involved in high-quality patient care at the UNM Center for Digestive Diseases, which serves over 10,000 patients annually, and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for performing a wide array of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including capsule endoscopy, colonoscopy, and liver biopsy 1.

Clinical Training

The fellowship provides extensive clinical experience across various settings including:

• University Hospital
• Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center
• Sandoval Regional Medical Center

Fellows will participate in specialty clinics such as liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease, allowing for comprehensive care and management appropriate for diverse patient populations 4.

Curriculum and Rotations

Clinical training is structured into distinct rotations throughout the fellowship:

• First Year: UNMH general GI inpatient consult service, VA general GI inpatient consult service, outpatient clinics, and research time.
• Second Year: Continuing inpatient services with increased responsibility, outpatient clinic exposure, and dedicated research time.
• Third Year: More specialized consult services and further research opportunities.

Each rotation includes not just clinical duties but also participation in procedures, providing experience with basic to advanced endoscopic techniques 5.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research as an essential component of training. Fellows may engage in a research track, dedicating up to 18 months for focused research initiatives if approved. The center is involved in diverse research projects that contribute to advancing therapies in gastrointestinal diseases 6.

Conferences and Educational Opportunities

Fellows have access to numerous educational events including:

• Weekly division conferences covering core curriculum, clinical cases, and journal clubs.
• Monthly interdisciplinary conferences focusing on hepatocellular carcinoma, advanced endoscopy, and collaborative case discussions with radiology and surgery departments.

These activities not only enhance learning but also promote active participation in scholarly works 6.

Application Process and Special Requirements

Applications are accepted exclusively through ERAS, and candidates must have completed three years of accredited training in Internal Medicine. While there is no mandated cutoff for USMLE scores, competitive applicants typically score in the mid-80 percentile. The program welcomes international medical graduates who are either US citizens, permanent residents, or eligible for J-1 visas; however, H-1 visa sponsorship is not available 4.

Visa Support

The program supports J-1 visas for international medical graduates. Candidates require appropriate visa eligibility to participate in the fellowship 5.

Competitiveness and Selection

The program is considered highly competitive, hosting a strong applicant pool reflective of various medical backgrounds, including both DO and IMG candidates. A critical aspect of competitiveness is strong clinical skills, a solid research base, and a commitment to gastroenterology 3.

Leave Time

Fellows receive 21 days of annual vacation, as well as educational leave for attending conferences or presenting research. Professional leave is also available for job interviews, alongside a robust sick leave policy, ensuring fellows can maintain their health and well-being throughout training 6.