University of Utah Health Program

The University of Utah Health Program in Pediatric Transplant Hepatology offers an advanced one-year fellowship designed for candidates who have completed an ACGME accredited Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship. The program is based at Primary Children’s Hospital (PCH), which serves as the only tertiary children’s hospital in the Intermountain West, providing comprehensive clinical exposure to pediatric liver diseases and transplantation.

The liver transplant team has a remarkable history, averaging over 15 liver transplants per year, signaling the program's robust clinical activity. Trainees will engage with a multidisciplinary team addressing a wide range of liver-related conditions, including liver tumors and portal hypertension, through hands-on experiences that range from routine management to complex interventions. The facility supports a wide geographical catchment area, including states like Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Montana, Western Colorado, and New Mexico, enhancing the clinical exposure available to fellows 1.

Curriculum and Training

The fellowship curriculum prioritizes both clinical and research training, emphasizing a well-rounded education. Trainees benefit from structured educational opportunities that include weekly conferences, a formal board review, GI-surgical combined conferences, and interventional procedure practice in a pig lab. The balanced approach ensures that fellows maintain their pediatric GI expertise while preparing for certification in pediatric hepatology.

The program encourages research involvement, with opportunities to engage in ongoing projects covering various aspects of pediatric liver disease and transplantation, such as the SPLIT registry for liver transplantation and NIH-funded studies in Pediatric Acute Liver Failure and Childhood Liver Disease Research Network. Fellows are expected to design and complete a mentored scholarly project, fostering skills in research methodologies and critical evaluation of literature in their field 2.

Research Opportunities

The University of Utah is recognized for its extensive research capabilities, evidenced by a strong focus on translational science within the fellowship program. Areas of research include non-invasive reflux monitoring, pediatric pancreatitis studies initiated by the NIH, and various assessments of health outcomes related to pediatric gastrointestinal, nutritional, and hepatic disorders. The commitment to research ensures that fellows not only participate in clinical fellowship activities but also contribute to advancements in pediatric hepatology.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Pediatric Transplant Hepatology Fellowship at the University of Utah, candidates must have completed an accredited three-year pediatrics residency followed by a three-year Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship. Board certification in pediatrics or eligibility to take the American Board of Pediatrics general pediatric examination during the first fellowship year is essential. For international medical graduates (IMGs), only J-1 visa sponsorship is accepted, and they must possess a valid ECFMG certificate along with an appropriate clinical experience verified by U.S.-based recommendations 3.

The application involves submitting all required documents via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by the stated deadline. This includes a detailed personal statement outlining their motivation and career goals, updated CV, medical school transcripts, USMLE or COMLEX scores, and letters of recommendation. A maximum of four letters is permitted, including specific requirements for IMGs 3.

Living in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is consistently ranked among the best places to live, offering a balance of professional and personal opportunities. The area facilitates a vibrant community with access to world-renowned outdoor activities, from skiing in nearby resorts to hiking and biking trails. The local economy is strong, with family incomes above the national average and an array of family-friendly neighborhoods, contributing to both a fulfilling personal life and a supportive environment for medical professionals 1.

Visa Support

The program supports J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. No other types of visas are accepted, making it imperative for eligible candidates to meet this requirement to participate in the fellowship. This structured support ensures that IMGs can navigate the residency application process effectively and focus on their training without additional legal concerns 3.