University of Texas Medical Branch Hospitals Program
Location:
Galveston, TXSpecialty:
RheumatologyACGME Code:
1504821147The Rheumatology Fellowship Program at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston is a fully accredited two-year program designed for internal medicine residents seeking specialized training in rheumatology. The program aims to deliver comprehensive education and clinical training that adheres to the highest standards of patient care and academic rigor.
Program Overview
The fellowship traditionally admits one fellow each year, although the expanding faculty allows for potential increases to this number in the near future. The first year is primarily focused on clinical duties, which include outpatient clinics and consult services across the Galveston and League City locations. During the second year, fellows take on leadership roles and gain opportunities for electives in various medical specialties such as nephrology, dermatology, and sports medicine, among others 3.
Clinical Rotations
Fellows participate in a diversity of clinical experiences that encompass managing patients with a range of rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, gout, and vasculitis.
Clinics are held at the Primary Care Pavilion in Galveston and the Victory Lakes Town Center in League City. Additionally, fellows provide care at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Rheumatology Clinic, where they treat patients within the prison system 4.
Conferences and Didactics
The program includes a robust educational component featuring didactic lectures on core rheumatological concepts, journal club meetings for recent literature reviews, clinical case conferences for discussing interesting clinical scenarios, and board review sessions to prepare fellows for certification exams. The faculty includes both internal and invited speakers from related fields, ensuring a well-rounded experience 5.
Research Opportunities
Research is integral to the program, with fellows encouraged to engage in innovative projects. Current research opportunities cover a range of topics such as antiphospholipid syndrome and joint injections. Fellows have access to a dedicated research team and resources to support their scholarly pursuits 6 10.
Faculty and Staff
The program comprises a diverse team of faculty who are committed to fellowship education and mentorship. The faculty includes experienced physician specialists in rheumatology who facilitate training and support the fellows throughout their training. Personalized attention and mentorship are pillars of this program 7 8.
Application Requirements
Applicants to the UTMB Rheumatology Fellowship must have completed an ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency and hold board eligibility for the ABIM in internal medicine. Applications are processed through ERAS, and candidates are required to submit three letters of recommendation. The program does not sponsor H-1B visas and requires appropriate visa status for non-U.S. citizens 9.
Competitiveness and Inclusivity
The program is considered competitive and aims to balance the applicant pool, welcoming both DO graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). The selection committee values diverse backgrounds and experiences, looking for qualities that align with their mission of excellence in patient care and education.
Visa Support
The UTMB program can assist with appropriate visa types but does not sponsor H-1B visas. Candidates must possess the appropriate visa status prior to applying.
Website
Director
Vijaya L Murthy, MBBSProgram Director, interim Division Chief Appointed Since July 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$69,742First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Galveston, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Galveston, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Galveston has a moderate crime rate. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, petty theft and property crime can occur.
- Fun Activities: Living in Galveston offers access to beautiful beaches, water activities, historic sites, museums, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is famous for its Victorian architecture and annual Mardi Gras celebration.
- Climate: Galveston experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The area is prone to hurricanes due to its location on the Gulf Coast.
- Races and Population: Galveston has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a rich cultural atmosphere.
- Education: Galveston offers educational opportunities through schools like the University of Texas Medical Branch, providing a strong academic environment for residents and families.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Galveston is lower than in larger Texas cities like Houston. Housing is affordable, but the cost of insurance may be higher due to the city's proximity to the coast.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Galveston is located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, which can be reached by car in about an hour's drive. Houston offers a wider range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, rich history, diverse cultural scene, lower cost of living compared to some other Texas cities.
- Cons: Proximity to hurricane-prone areas, moderate crime rate, potential higher insurance costs.
Interview Questions
