Residency Advisor

University of South Dakota Program

Location:

Soux Falls, SD

Specialty:

Gastroenterology

ACGME Code:

1444614001
Fellowship
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The Gastroenterology Fellowship Program is a three-year training initiative designed to provide postgraduate physicians with advanced clinical and research experience in gastroenterology. This fellowship is specifically tailored for individuals who have completed their residency in internal medicine and seek to specialize further in the field of gastroenterology. It aims to equip fellows with the skills necessary to excel as gastroenterologists through a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on clinical rotations.

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Mission: The mission of the program is to train emerging gastroenterologists to provide timely and excellent care to the residents of South Dakota and adjacent rural regions. This mission is supported by multiple aims including: providing a solid foundation in gastroenterology within a supportive environment, offering elective rotations tailored to career goals, and promoting leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration.

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Program Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to give fellows extensive training across various essential areas of gastroenterology. It encompasses both inpatient and outpatient rotations, procedural training, and didactic sessions designed to facilitate experiential learning. Fellows will gain experience in managing a diverse range of gastrointestinal disorders and performing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures.

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The curriculum includes:

  • PGY4: Rotations include outpatient endoscopy, inpatient hepatology, and interventional radiology.
  • PGY5: This year includes elective training in liver transplant at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, along with outpatient and inpatient procedures.
  • PGY6: Focus shifts to elective rotations, which cover advanced gastroenterology topics and research projects.
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Training Sites

Fellows primarily conduct their training at the Sanford USD Medical Center's Center for Digestive Health, known for being the largest and most experienced gastroenterology team in the region. They offer comprehensive gastroenterology care and the only ASGE Recognized GI Lab in South Dakota.

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Additionally, fellows may also train at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, home to an internationally recognized liver transplant program.

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Life in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota, offering amenities typical of large urban areas while maintaining a low cost of living and low crime rates. It boasts a well-rounded community with educational institutions, parks, dining, and a vibrant cultural scene.

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Fellows will have numerous recreational opportunities including over 80 public parks and multiple sporting events. The population of Sioux Falls is approximately 202,000, contributing to a safe and close-knit community atmosphere.

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Application Requirements

The program accepts applications exclusively through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). It encourages applications from candidates who have completed an accredited three-year residency in internal medicine and have passed the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) exam.

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Applicants must also be prepared to sit for the gastroenterology subspecialty board examination after successful completion of the fellowship. Specific application components include:

  • USMLE transcripts
  • ECFMG Status Report
  • Medical School Transcript
  • Medical Student Performance Evaluation
  • Three letters of recommendation
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Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. This includes support for various visa types which enable international physicians to pursue their fellowship training alongside U.S. medical graduates.

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Competitiveness

The Gastroenterology Fellowship is notably competitive, seeking applicants who demonstrate strong credentials and a commitment to pursuing a career in gastroenterology. While the program aims to attract both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), candidates are expected to exhibit a robust academic and clinical background to enhance their candidacy.

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Benefits

The University of South Dakota offers a competitive salary structure and a comprehensive benefits package for fellows. Stipends for the 2025-2026 academic year include: PGY-4 at $74,000, PGY-5 at $77,000, and PGY-6 at $79,000.

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Insurance benefits include health, vision, dental, and life insurance, all of which are employer-sponsored, ensuring that fellows can focus on their training without financial burdens.

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Fit
Location
Culture
Prestige
Research
Schedule / Training

Program

Program Size

2, 2, 2 (3 years)
Accreditation Status
Initial Accreditation since September 2023

Composition

-

Quality of Life

First year average hours per week:

60hrs

First year max cons. hours on duty:

12hrs

First Year Salary:

$70,000

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Training

Fellowship Rate:

-

Faculty to Residents Ratio:

2.1X

Residents career path:

-

Admission

Min. Step 2 Score:

-

Visa Sponsorship:

-

YOG Cutoff:

-

Location

Sioux Falls, SD

Population
-
Income
$77,719
Education
36.2%
Employment
60.6%
Health
7.9%
Age
-

Housing - Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Living in Sioux Falls, SD

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a growing city known for its friendly atmosphere and community-oriented lifestyle. Below are various aspects of living in this location:

  • Crime Rate and Safety:

    Sioux Falls has a moderate crime rate compared to national averages. It is considered a safe city, with community policing initiatives that promote safety and collaboration between the police and residents.

  • Fun Activities:

    The city offers a variety of recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and the famous Falls Park. Local attractions include the Great Plains Zoo, the Sioux Falls Arena, and numerous annual events such as the Sioux Falls Canaries baseball games and the Sioux Falls JazzFest.

  • Climate:

    Sioux Falls experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit.

  • Race and Population:

    As of the latest census, Sioux Falls has a population of approximately 200,000 residents. The city has a predominantly white demographic, but it also has a growing diversity with a mix of other racial and ethnic groups, contributing to a vibrant community.

  • Education:

    Sioux Falls is home to several public and private schools, along with higher education institutions like Augustana University and the University of Sioux Falls. The city's educational facilities are known for their commitment to student achievement and community involvement.

  • Cost of Living:

    The cost of living in Sioux Falls is relatively low compared to the national average. Housing is affordable, and essential expenses such as groceries, healthcare, and utilities are reasonable as well, making it an attractive option for many residents.

  • Nearby Cities:

    The nearest major city is Minneapolis, Minnesota, which is about a 3.5-hour drive (approximately 240 miles) to the northeast. Minneapolis is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and extensive park system. Another nearby city is Omaha, Nebraska, located roughly 2.5 hours (approximately 160 miles) to the south, known for its rich history and cultural attractions.

  • Pros and Cons:

    Pros: Low cost of living, friendly community, variety of recreational activities, and a decent safety record.
    Cons: Cold winters, limited nightlife options compared to larger cities, and fewer cultural amenities.

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