Utah HealthCare Institute/St Mark Program

The Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship Program at the Utah Healthcare Institute, specifically at St. Mark's Hospital, is a well-established program offering rigorous training in the field of colorectal surgery. Founded in 2005, the program is fully accredited by the ACGME and is administered by the Associates in Colon and Rectal Surgery. The program emphasizes innovative surgical techniques and comprehensive care for patients with various conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including the colon, rectum, and anus.

The program aims to equip fellows with extensive knowledge and practical skills in managing conditions related to anorectal and colorectal diseases. The training includes a combination of office practice, inpatient rounds, outpatient surgeries, major abdominal surgeries, endoscopic procedures, and the evaluation of anorectal physiology. This wide array of experiences ensures fellows are adept at handling both common and complex surgical cases.

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum of the fellowship is designed to provide a broad clinical exposure, incorporating acute and chronic conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The program actively nurtures a commitment to evidence-based practices and scientific investigation, ensuring fellows are well-versed in the latest advancements in clinical science related to colorectal surgery.

Fellows will receive specialized training in minimally invasive surgeries, including laparoscopic and robotic approaches, as well as training in complex re-operative pelvic surgeries. The faculty prioritizes training surgeons in both minimally invasive and traditional surgical techniques, acknowledging the importance of versatility in patient care. Advanced training also includes functional disorders of the anal sphincter, rectum, and pelvic floor, using specialized tools and methodologies, such as anal manometry and biofeedback therapies available on-site.

Moreover, there is substantial emphasis on didactic learning through a protected conference schedule, which spans several topics including morbidity and mortality reviews, research meetings, and pelvic floor conferences. This agenda is critical for building the academic proficiency of the fellows.

Clinical Rotations and Experiences

The fellowship provides clinical experiences across multiple esteemed institutions, including MountainStar/HCA Hospitals, Intermountain Medical Center, Latter Day Saints Hospital, and Alta View Hospital. These affiliations provide fellows with diverse learning opportunities and patient populations. The fellowship structure supports a preceptorship model where fellows work closely under the supervision of attending physicians, ensuring personalized mentorship and guidance.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages fellows to participate in scholarly activities, enabling them to engage in research that has real implications for colorectal health. Fellows are expected to incorporate their findings into clinical practice, thereby enhancing patient care within the community.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The program is known to be highly competitive, attracting candidates with strong backgrounds in surgery. Generally, candidates that have undergone at least one year of general surgery residency and possess board certification in surgery are preferred. Specific application requirements include eligibility for the Elective Residency Application Service (ERAS) and a commitment to patient-centered care principles. Selection components may include an assessment of clinical evaluations, letters of recommendation, and performance on standardized examinations.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating the entry of qualified candidates from various backgrounds into the fellowship.

Benefits and Stipend

Fellows enjoy a comprehensive benefit package, including competitive salaries, medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and reimbursement for necessary expenses related to their professional development. The program provides financial aid for memberships in professional organizations, state medical licenses, and resources for continuous education, including attendance at conferences.

Overall, the Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship at the Utah Healthcare Institute provides a robust framework for training highly skilled surgeons who are well-prepared to advance in their careers and contribute significantly to the field of colorectal surgery.