UPMC Medical Education Program

The UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh offers a comprehensive Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Program that is highly regarded for its clinical training, research opportunities, and mentorship within the field of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. The fellowship is a three-year ACGME-accredited program, tailored to nurture future leaders through a variety of educational and practical experiences.

The mission of the fellowship program is to educate and support fellows as they pursue their specific interests in pediatric gastroenterology. The division consists of over 15 specialists, including gastroenterologists who focus on pancreatology and hepatology, dieticians, psychologists, and PhD researchers committed to unparalleled clinical care, education, and research.

Curriculum and Rotations

The first year of the fellowship is primarily dedicated to clinical training, where fellows engage deeply in the diagnosis and management of both inpatient and outpatient pediatric gastrointestinal and liver disorders. Fellows receive extensive training in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including endoscopic techniques. Additional training is provided for managing liver and small bowel transplant patients.

Formal didactic teaching is complemented by an informal bedside education model, fostering a rich learning environment. The program includes various conferencing opportunities, such as Division and Pathology Conferences, a Radiology Conference, and a Journal Club, each aimed at enhancing fellows' knowledge and understanding of pediatric gastroenterology.

Research Opportunities

During the second and third years, fellows can engage in scholarly work, supported by mentorship from faculty within the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and affiliated faculty in the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. This research experience is supported by minimal clinical responsibilities during these years, allowing fellows to focus primarily on their research interests. The fellowship program also provides opportunities for involvement in Clinical, Translational, and Basic Science research, focusing on improving outcomes in pediatric gastroenterology.

Unique Aspects of the Program

UPMC Children's Hospital is consistently ranked among the top hospitals for pediatric gastroenterology by US News & World Report. The program's faculty includes world-renowned specialists in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Hepatology, and Pancreatic Disorders. Fellows benefit from easy access to faculty for mentorship and guidance in both clinical and research endeavors.

Additionally, the Fellowship offers leadership development opportunities, with third-year fellows taking on the role of Chief Fellows, enhancing their leadership skills within the division. Collaborative educational approaches, including flipped classrooms and quality improvement curricula, enhance the fellowship education model.

Mentorship and Career Development

Fellows in this program receive formal mentorship, designed to support their career aspirations. The program facilitates valuable networking opportunities both locally and nationally. Each fellow participates in several mentorship meetings annually, focusing on various aspects such as clinical practice, research, and personal well-being.

The Department of Pediatrics offers a comprehensive course aimed at career development, supplemented by opportunities for advanced education through the Clinical Translational Science Institute.

Visa Support and Application Requirements

The fellowship program provides visa sponsorship for international applicants, supporting both J-1 and H-1B visas. This openness is indicative of the program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion within its ranks. Applicants are expected to have completed a Pediatric Residency and must provide documentation such as a Dean's Letter, medical transcripts, and USMLE scores, among other materials. Interviews are mandatory and conducted by invitation as part of the NRMP Match process.

Competitiveness

The UPMC Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship is competitive, with three fellows accepted annually. The program welcomes various applicants, including those from MD and DO backgrounds, recognizing the value of diverse training experiences. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are also encouraged to apply as the program is generally supportive of IMGs.

For a fulfilling and enriching training program in pediatric gastroenterology, UPMC Children’s Hospital stands out as a prime choice, offering a unique blend of clinical expertise, research opportunities, and a strong culture of mentorship.