University of Tennessee Program

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) offers a comprehensive fellowship program in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, designed to cultivate future leaders within this specialized field. The program's faculty are distinguished by their nationally and internationally recognized achievements in medical education, research, and patient care. Their multitude of research initiatives spans topics such as molecular genetics, proteomics, and clinical investigations focused on diabetes and obesity, providing a rich learning environment for fellows.

Curriculum and Training

The Endocrinology fellowship consists of clinical training and research components, allowing fellows to develop critical reasoning and a scholarly approach to advanced medical practice. The program typically spans two years and includes:

• A structured curriculum that incorporates multiple clinical rotations.
• 4 months dedicated to research, allowing fellows to engage deeply with ongoing studies and projects.
• Educational lectures that cover core topics in endocrinology, integrated conferences, and Grand Rounds.

Evaluation of fellows' performance is continual, with a pre-test assessment at the start of the training period to establish a baseline knowledge of endocrinology and metabolism. This assessment aids in tailoring the educational experience to meet each fellow's needs.

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Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

The program utilizes several esteemed clinical training sites, including:

• Methodist University Hospital (MUH): This is the principal adult private teaching hospital for UTHSC, offering extensive real-world experiences in managing endocrine disorders.
• Memphis VA Medical Center (VAMC): An affiliate teaching hospital that serves as a referral center for complex cases across a five-state area, providing fellows access to diverse case material.
• Regional One Health: Establishes a safety-net for underserved populations and is the only Level-1 trauma center in the region.
• Methodist South Hospital: Offers additional clinical exposure and various medical services.

Fellows participate in outpatient clinics, consultation rounds, and various educational conferences at these institutions, enhancing their hands-on learning and patient management skills.

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Research Opportunities

Research experience constitutes a vital element in the fellowship program. Fellows are encouraged to engage in various ongoing studies, including:

• Investigations into testosterone therapy and its vascular effects in hypogonadal men.
• Clinical studies on ceramides and sphingolipids as predictors of diabetes onset.
• Projects focused on congenital adrenal hyperplasia and its management.

Research mentorship is robust, with substantial opportunities for fellows to integrate clinical practice with research, aiding in the development of critical investigational skills. The program has a track record of successful publications and offers a supportive environment for Scholarly Activity.

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Competitiveness and Eligibility

This fellowship program is competitive and seeks candidates who have completed a three-year ACGME-accredited residency in Internal Medicine. Notable eligibility criteria include:

• Completion of all three USMLE Steps or COMLEX-USA with minimum scores of 200 (USMLE) or 400 (COMLEX).
• Three letters of recommendation, including one from the residency program director.
• Application via ERAS, with review commencing in August prior to the fellowship start date.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are welcome to apply if they meet specific requirements, including having completed an internal medicine residency in the U.S. or Canada.

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Visa Support

The program provides visa support for candidates on J-1 visas. However, it does not sponsor H-1B visas according to UTHSC Graduate Medical Education guidelines. Applicants must have U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or J-1 visa status.

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Salary, Benefits, and Leave

The fellowship offers a competitive salary that aligns with UTHSC's guidelines plus access to various benefits such as:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Annual and sick leave policies that allow for three weeks each per year.
• Educational leave and family-related leave options.

Fellows are also provided with practical resources such as lab coats, library access, and educational facilities.

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Unique Aspects

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is situated in Memphis, a city that serves as a healthcare hub within the Mid-South, providing numerous opportunities for diverse clinical encounters and community engagement. Memphis is recognized for its rich cultural tapestry, historic sites, and vibrant community, making it an appealing environment for both professional and personal growth.

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