Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program
Location:
Richmond, VASpecialty:
Endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolismACGME Code:
1435121020The Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Fellowship Program at Virginia Commonwealth University Health System in Richmond is highly regarded for its robust curriculum designed to prepare fellows for a career in endocrinology. The program is affiliated with the VCU Medical Center, a state-of-the-art facility that provides access to a diverse population, including many patients with varying endocrine disorders and a significant proportion of uninsured individuals, aligning with its mission to provide comprehensive care regardless of financial status 1.
Program Overview
The VCU fellowship encompasses both clinical and research training across two primary sites: VCU Health and the Central Virginia VA Medical Health Care System. The program is dedicated to producing highly competent endocrinologists through a well-rounded approach that emphasizes multidisciplinary training and extensive exposure to a variety of endocrine disorders.
Training Environment
Fellows work in a collegial environment that supports professional growth. The faculty, recognized for their excellence in education, provide mentorship and guidance tailored to the individual needs and career aspirations of each fellow. This collaborative atmosphere fosters a sense of teamwork essential for their development as future leaders in endocrinology 2.
Curriculum and Rotations
The fellowship spans two years, providing comprehensive training through various clinical rotations:
- VCU Consults: Fellows lead the multidisciplinary Endocrinology Inpatient Consult Service, engaging in daily rounds and dedicated didactic teaching sessions with faculty.
- VA Clinical: Participation in specialty clinics such as those for lipid disorders and diabetes, alongside post-clinic teaching conferences, is a key component.
- Outpatient Specialty Clinics: Fellows rotate through diverse specialty clinics, including those focused on nodular thyroid disease, obesity medicine, and reproductive endocrinology.
- Pediatric Endocrinology: A rotation during the second year in outpatient pediatric clinics ensures further specialization and expertise.
- Research: Each fellow engages in a clinical or basic science research project, receiving protected time to develop their expertise under a designated mentor.
Conferences and Educational Opportunities
The program emphasizes continuous learning through a structured series of conferences:
- Weekly Endocrine Didactic Conferences
- Endocrine Grand Rounds
- Periodic Endocrine Tumor Board meetings
Mentorship and Professional Development
Each fellow is assigned two mentors—one for research and one for career guidance—to help navigate their professional paths. The program also covers membership dues and costs for attending one scientific meeting annually, ensuring fellows remain engaged with the latest developments in endocrinology.
Work-Life Balance
The fellowship supports a balanced lifestyle with three weeks of vacation annually, flexible scheduling for night and weekend coverage, and ongoing well-being initiatives. Night coverage typically involves limited at-home on-call responsibilities, allowing for focused clinical exposure without overwhelming demands.
Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The program primarily supports J-1 visas for international medical graduates (IMGs). This aspect, coupled with the program's broad commitment to quality training, makes it an attractive option for applicants both nationally and internationally. The program is recognized for being open and welcoming to DO and IMG candidates, fostering a competitive yet inclusive atmosphere.
Application Requirements
Eligible candidates must possess certification from an ACGME-accredited internal medicine training program. Essential application documents include a curriculum vitae, USMLE scores, medical school transcripts, a personal statement, and four letters of recommendation, with specific requirements for the program director's letter. While detailed competitive stats are not shared, applicants should be prepared to demonstrate significant commitment and potential in their endocrinology careers.
Website
Director
Edmond P Wickham, MD, MPHProfessor of Medicine and Pediatrics; Interim Chief, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
52hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,336First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
4Location
Richmond, VA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Richmond, VA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Richmond has a mix of safe and more concerning neighborhoods. It's advisable to research the specific area you'll be living in to ensure safety.
- Fun Activities: Richmond offers a thriving arts and culture scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, museums, historical sites, and a variety of dining options.
- Climate: Richmond experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for some humidity during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Richmond has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities enriching the city's character.
- Education: Richmond is home to several colleges and universities, providing opportunities for continued learning and cultural activities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Richmond is relatively moderate compared to some other urban areas in the U.S.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Richmond is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away from bigger cities like Washington D.C. and Virginia Beach. These cities offer additional cultural and recreational opportunities.
- Pros: Diverse cultural scene, historical significance, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Varied neighborhood safety, hot and humid summers.
Interview Questions
