University of Pennsylvania Health System Program
Location:
Philadelphia, PASpecialty:
Infectious diseaseACGME Code:
1464121022The University of Pennsylvania Health System offers a robust fellowship program in Infectious Diseases, housed within the Division of Infectious Diseases of the Department of Medicine. The program is recognized for its excellence in clinical care, research, and education, reflecting the historical significance of the division since its founding in 1971. It provides fellows with opportunities to craft individualized training programs tailored to their career aspirations using a diverse array of clinical and research experiences.
Curriculum Overview
The fellowship curriculum is structured across multiple years. The first year primarily focuses on clinical training within a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings across the University of Pennsylvania’s hospitals, such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Hospital, and more. This experience encompasses several sub-specialty clinics targeting chronic and complex infectious diseases including HIV, tuberculosis, travel medicine, and mycobacterial infections, presenting extensive exposure to diverse patient populations.
1Training Sites
Fellows train at prominent institutions such as:
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP)
- Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
- Pennsylvania Hospital
- Philadelphia Veterans Administration Medical Center
- Chester County Hospital
This wide-ranging exposure allows fellows to gain comprehensive insights into various aspects of Infectious Diseases, enhancing their clinical acumen.
2Research Opportunities
The fellowship emphasizes a strong research component, encouraging fellows to engage in ongoing projects that span basic, translational, and clinical research. This includes world-renowned initiatives such as the Penn Center for AIDS Research and the Botswana-UPenn Partnership, fostering skills in both domestic and global health contexts. Research training can lead to advanced academic and clinical research degrees, with many fellows participating in clinical trials related to HIV, Hepatitis, and more.
3Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Understanding the importance of diversity in medical training and practice, the program prioritizes health equity and racial justice. This initiative aims to recruit and retain a diverse community of fellows, faculty, and staff, recognizing that inclusivity enriches the educational environment and improves patient care outcomes.
4Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is known for being competitive yet is considered DO and IMG (International Medical Graduates) friendly, encouraging applicants from varied backgrounds. Visa sponsorship is available for qualified candidates, including types such as H-1B and J-1 visas.
Application Requirements and Competitiveness
Exceptional applicants typically have robust clinical experience and a strong academic record. Specific requirements can include a pass on previous USMLE/COMLEX examinations and an emphasis is placed on research experience in infectious diseases. Additionally, the program highly values diversity and welcomes applications from various educational backgrounds.
5Unique Aspects of the Fellowship
In addition to a strong clinical focus, fellows have the opportunity to craft specific training paths in healthcare epidemiology, antimicrobial stewardship, and global health. The flexibility in training paths allows fellows to tailor their fellowship experience to align with their career ambitions, whether in academic medicine, public health, or industry roles.
6Conclusion
This fellowship contributes significantly to the medical field by training leaders in Infectious Diseases who are equipped to address contemporary challenges and enhance healthcare delivery through exceptional clinical care and research practices.
7Website
Director
Emily Blumberg, MDProgram Director, Infectious Disease Fellowship Program, Professor of Medicine Appointed Since May 2003Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$82,720First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
5.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Philadelphia, PA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Philadelphia, PA:
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years.
- Fun Activities: Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters.
- Climate: Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months.
- Races and Population: Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.
- Education: Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood.
- Proximity to Other Cities: Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers.
- Pros: Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene.
- Cons: Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
Interview Questions
