University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Program

The Geriatric Medicine Fellowship Program at the University of Oklahoma offers a one-year, ACGME accredited training designed to enhance the care of older adults through excellence in patient care, research, education, and innovation. The program is part of the Donald W. Reynolds Section of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine and is committed to preparing fellows for leadership roles in clinical geriatric medicine and medical education. Each year, the program accepts two fellows, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds both nationally and internationally.

An integral feature of the fellowship is the collaboration between the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the Oklahoma City VA Health System, providing a comprehensive, evidence-based clinical training experience. Fellows undergo in-depth mentorship across various care settings, including ambulatory care, inpatient services, and long-term care facilities.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum encompasses a robust training structure, offering extensive clinical exposure in numerous facets of geriatric medicine. Major training sites include the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System and OU Health, where fellows engage in a variety of clinical responsibilities, such as:

• Longitudinal ambulatory geriatric care
• Skilled nursing and long-term care
• Short-term rehabilitative care
• Home-based primary care
• Geriatric consultative care
• Hospice and palliative medicine

Fellows also engage in a year-long conference series focusing on comprehensive reviews of Geriatric Medicine and Hospice & Palliative Medicine topics. In addition, clinical rotation blocks are available in related specialties, allowing fellows to gain exposure in Neurology, Palliative Medicine, Geriatric Rehabilitation, Wound Care, and Home-based Primary Care. A unique aspect of the program is the elective rotation, permitting fellows to personalize their clinical training according to their interests.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a significant role in the fellowship, facilitating fellows in contributing to the field of geriatrics through innovative studies and scholarly activities. Fellows are encouraged to attend conferences and present their research findings, with the program supporting travel and registration expenses for accepted abstracts or presentations during the fellowship period.

Program Culture

The program fosters a supportive culture, equipping fellows with opportunities to connect with current fellows and alumni to help guide their decisions about applying. Applicants have the chance to speak directly with program participants, allowing for insights into the training experience and overall program quality. This open-door policy is foundational in fostering community and mentorship.

Application Requirements

The application process is inclusive and considers a range of candidates. The program does not impose a strict cut-off regarding years since graduation, thus encouraging both recent graduates and mid-career professionals to apply. However, applicants must pass the USMLE or COMLEX within three attempts; failure to do so may hinder licensing in Oklahoma, as mandated by state regulations. The program admits International Medical Graduates (IMGs) who must provide proof of prior residency completion and state that the University of Oklahoma only supports the J-1 Visa for international fellows.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship provides a competitive salary along with substantial benefits, including core medical insurance for the fellow and eligible dependents, professional liability coverage, vacation days, sick leave, educational leave, and a range of optional insurances (dental, vision, etc.). For the fiscal year 2024-2025, the salary for PGY4 is set at $69,299, one of several structured salary offerings.

Training Sites

Training occurs primarily at two major institutions: the OU Health Sciences Center and the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System. These sites allow fellows to immerse themselves in diverse clinical environments, thus enhancing their competence and confidence in managing the complexities associated with geriatric patients.

Visa Support

For international applicants, the program offers J-1 Visa sponsorship, which is critical for non-U.S. citizens looking to participate in the fellowship. Prospective fellows are required to obtain the J-1 Visa prior to beginning the fellowship, ensuring compliance with the regulatory framework governing international medical training.