University of Tennessee Program
Location:
Memphis, TNSpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1504721105Overview of the Program
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) offers a fellowship in Rheumatology through its Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology in Memphis. Established in 1958 and with over 100 fellows trained, the program has a longstanding tradition of excellence in education, research, and patient care.
The division consists of a diverse faculty well-equipped to address the complete spectrum of rheumatic diseases. Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with extensive work in the biological properties of collagen, inflammation, and clinical translational research. This includes pioneering models of disease, such as the rodent model of collagen-induced arthritis, which has had a profound impact on worldwide rheumatology research 1.
Curriculum
The fellowship program is structured to ensure comprehensive training in all aspects of rheumatology. Fellows engage in a robust didactic series complemented by clinical exposure to a variety of settings. Weekly conferences cover essential topics such as basic immunology, epidemiology, and subspecialty rheumatology topics 2.
Fellows are also expected to participate in a quality improvement project and publish at least one article during their fellowship 3.
Rotations and Clinical Experience
The clinical training is highly diverse and consists of rotations at leading hospitals, including Methodist University Hospital, Regional One Health, and the Memphis VA Medical Center. The curriculum includes nine months of hospital consult service for PGY4 fellows and three months for PGY5 fellows, alongside multiple clinic experiences each week. The fellows also get experience in pediatric rheumatology through a specialized rotation at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital 4.
Research and Innovation
The division is deeply involved in cutting-edge research funded by prominent federal and private agencies. Research topics vary widely, including collagen autoimmunity in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis, cytokine interactions, and gene therapy approaches. This research not only contributes to the fellows' education but significantly impacts the scientific community at large 5.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The UTHSC Rheumatology fellowship program offers unique advantages. The faculty includes prominent researchers who have significantly advanced the field, providing fellows with exceptional mentorship opportunities. The program also encourages engagement in national conferences such as those held by the American College of Rheumatology 6.
Training Sites
Fellows will train at various esteemed institutions within the Memphis area. This includes:
- Methodist University Hospital: Known for its advanced transplant institute.
- Regional One Health: The only level-1 trauma center in the region.
- Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital: A recognized leader in pediatric healthcare.
- Memphis VA Medical Center: Serving thousands of veterans annually, providing a wide range of healthcare services.
Visa Support
The program supports international graduates by sponsoring a J-1 visa for those who meet the necessary qualifications. This allows the program to accept a diverse group of fellows from different backgrounds globally 7.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Rheumatology fellowship is competitive with specific application requirements. Applicants must be graduates of LCME-approved U.S. and Canadian medical schools or possess valid ECFMG certification if they are international medical graduates. It is essential for applicants to have completed at least three years of approved internal medicine residency training and have passing scores on USMLE or COMLEX 8. The application process requires a complete application submitted through ERAS and has a strict deadline for consideration.
Fellow Life and Benefits
The fellowship provides various benefits, including competitive salaries, healthcare insurance options, and generous leave policies. There are provisions for three weeks of annual leave and educational opportunities that include access to library resources and support for professional development 9.
Website
Director
Syed H Raza, MBBS, MDProgram Director, Associate Professor Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$67,596First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Memphis, TN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Memphis, TN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Memphis has a high crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in certain neighborhoods. It's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Memphis is known for its rich music history, delicious barbecue, and vibrant culture. Residents can enjoy visiting Graceland, Beale Street, the National Civil Rights Museum, and numerous live music venues.
- Climate: Memphis experiences hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Memphis has a diverse population with a significant African American community. It is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds.
- Education: Memphis is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Memphis is generally lower than the national average, making it an affordable city to reside in.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nashville, TN is approximately a 3-hour drive from Memphis. Nashville is known for its music scene, entertainment industry, and vibrant downtown area.
- Pros: Rich music culture, affordable cost of living, diverse population.
- Cons: High crime rate in certain areas, hot and humid summers.
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