University of South Florida Morsani Program

The Transplant Hepatology Fellowship at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine offers a comprehensive one-year training program specifically designed for physicians who have completed an ACGME-accredited fellowship in Gastroenterology. The fellowship prepares fellows to become proficient in managing patients with advanced liver disease and those undergoing liver transplantation. This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), ensuring adherence to rigorous training and competency standards applicable across the medical profession.

Fellows in the program are expected to participate extensively in both inpatient and outpatient hepatology and transplant services. They will rotate across several key training sites, including Tampa General Hospital (TGH), which is recognized as the busiest organ transplant center in Florida, performing a high volume of liver transplants annually, ranking among the top facilities in the nation. Each rotation is tailored to meet the specific training needs, aligning with the recommendations set forth by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) guidelines.

Curriculum and Training Experience

The curriculum is designed to immerse fellows in various hepatology educational activities encompassing journal clubs, case conferences, organ tumor board meetings, and pathology review sessions. This multidisciplinary exposure equips the fellows with the necessary skills to evaluate and manage complex liver disease cases. Additionally, fellows are encouraged to engage in research projects, which can be undertaken at TGH or affiliated hospitals, fostering an environment conducive to academic growth.

Training Sites

The training primarily occurs at TGH and may include collaborative opportunities at facilities such as the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center. Moffitt, a recognized NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, provides fellows with exposure to oncological aspects of liver disease, particularly in malignancies associated with liver conditions.

Special Features of the Fellowship

One unique aspect of the program is its focus on developing academic leaders in the field of hepatology. Through a structured learning environment, the program emphasizes both clinical excellence and research, preparing fellows to contribute to the advancement of hepatology. Moreover, an emphasis on promoting healthcare equity and addressing disparities in liver disease management is an integral part of the fellowship training.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program provides visa support for international medical graduates, typically sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas. This support facilitates the entry of qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to enhance the fellowship experience.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Transplant Hepatology Fellowship is competitive, attracting various applicants, including those with backgrounds in both MD and DO programs, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). Applicants should have completed their gastroenterology fellowship prior to entering this program. Specific application requirements and maximum thresholds for failed examinations, such as board certification exams, are typically outlined to guide prospective fellows.

Clinical Outcomes and Fellow Training

The fellowship ensures an exemplary pass rate for the subspecialty board examination, showcasing the effectiveness of its training model. Fellows actively participate in complex procedures and gain firsthand experience in navigating the multifaceted challenges associated with liver transplant patients.