University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Program

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center offers a structured and comprehensive Gastroenterology Fellowship Program that provides robust training in both clinical and procedural aspects of gastrointestinal medicine. This program is accredited and adheres to the highest standards established by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).

Application Information

The fellowship participates in the GI Match administered by the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Applications are processed exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). To maintain compliance with the application process, candidates must ensure they submit all required documentation exclusively via ERAS; other forms of communication, like email submissions of a curriculum vitae or additional materials, are not permitted. All applicants are expected to fulfill the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Graduate Medical Education eligibility requirements.

Required Documentation

A complete application must include: the common application form, a personal statement, a detailed curriculum vitae, an official medical school transcript, and three letters of recommendation. Importantly, one of the recommendation letters must come from the Internal Medicine Residency Program Director or a current Program Director. Documentation of USMLE Scores (Steps 1, 2, and 3) or Complex Scores (for DO candidates) is also required. This stringent documentation ensures that all candidates have met the necessary qualifications for such a specialized field as gastroenterology.

Important Dates

Applications are reviewed from July 15 to August 15, with interview invitations sent out by September. The program conducts virtual interview sessions between late September and late October. Following this, candidates can register for NRMP Match Lists in August, with the Rank Order List closing in November. Fellowship training commences on July 1 of the following year.

Board Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for board certification in gastroenterology, candidates must have completed their Internal Medicine residency and received certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). The fellowship program also ensures that all clinical competencies required for certification are thoroughly covered, including specific procedural skills and comprehension of medical knowledge.

Training and Procedural Competence

The fellowship encompasses a well-structured training regimen that complies with the ABIM standards for gastrointestinal specialties. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring patient care and procedural skills, medical knowledge, practice-based learning, professionalism, and systems-based practices. Each trainee is rated on their competency in various procedures, including upper and lower endoscopy, which forms a critical part of the training.

Living in Oklahoma City

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is situated within the larger Oklahoma City metropolitan area, known for its low cost of living, educational opportunities, and recreational activities, including professional sports and a vibrant arts community. The program provides a stimulating environment for both personal and professional development, making it an attractive choice for prospective fellows.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates seeking fellowships in gastroenterology. Currently, it typically sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types. This visa support is crucial for IMG candidates, facilitating their participation in the fellowship.

Competitiveness

The Gastroenterology Fellowship at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is highly competitive, making it essential for candidates to present a strong application that meets all outlined requirements. The program aims to attract diverse talents, including DO and IMG candidates, thus welcoming a broad range of applicants.