Washington University/B-JH/SLCH Consortium Program

Program Overview

The Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital/St. Louis Children’s Hospital Consortium Program in Pediatric Rheumatology provides comprehensive training for postdoctoral fellows in clinical and research aspects of pediatric rheumatology. The program is designed for those pursuing a career in rheumatology, with a focus on both clinical care and scientific research.

The division is affiliated with the prestigious Missouri Regional Arthritis Center and is integrated within the robust healthcare infrastructure of Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, as well as the St. Louis VA Medical Center. This consortium provides a rich environment for exposure to a diverse patient population and complex rheumatic diseases.

Fellowship Tracks

The program offers various tracks tailored to the career aspirations of the fellows:

• Two-Year Clinical Track: For those focused on clinical practice in pediatric rheumatology.
• Three-Year Clinical Research Track: Aimed at fellows interested in pursuing academic careers with a focus on clinical research.
• Three-Year Laboratory Research Track: Designed for those who wish to engage in basic laboratory research and scientific inquiry.
• Teaching Physician Pathway: A specialized path for fellows aiming to enhance their skills as clinician educators.

Curriculum and Training

The first year of the fellowship is heavily focused on clinical experience and direct patient care. Fellows serve as consultants in both inpatient and outpatient settings at Barnes-Jewish and John Cochran VA Hospitals. The curriculum includes not only patient management but also engagement in educational forums such as weekly Rheumatology Grand Rounds, journal clubs, and didactic clinical conferences.

The second and subsequent years typically involve more specialized training under the mentorship of faculty members, allowing fellows to mold their career trajectories based on their interests in research or clinical care. This mentorship is crucial for developing a personal career path and ensuring the attainment of the fellow's professional goals.

Clinical Training Sites

The primary clinical training sites include:

1. Washington University Medical Center: A premier clinical and biomedical research facility encompassing Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
2. Barnes-Jewish Hospital: Consistently ranked among the top hospitals nationally, providing diverse clinical training opportunities.
3. St. Louis Children’s Hospital: Recognized as a leading pediatric health center, offering a comprehensive range of services and specialized pediatric care.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to participate in clinical research protocols which can foster their understanding of the development and testing of new treatments. The program provides access to generous resources and support from specialized institutes focused on clinical and translational research, enabling fellows to undertake substantial research projects that can culminate in scholarly publications.

Educational Experiences

In addition to clinical training, the program also emphasizes academic growth through educational opportunities. Fellows are encouraged to present their research findings at conferences and participate actively in educational discussions. The program's commitment to the development of public presentation skills is evident in various organized events.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program is friendly toward International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and provides visa sponsorship options. It typically supports J-1 and H-1B visa types, thus accommodating fellows from across the globe who wish to train in pediatric rheumatology.

The fellowship is competitive, attracting qualified candidates from both U.S. and international medical schools. Applicants should possess a strong academic background and demonstrate a commitment to a career in pediatric rheumatology.

Application Requirements

Specific application criteria may include the following:

• A valid medical degree from a recognized institution.
• Completion of a residency in pediatrics or internal medicine.
• Strong academic performance and letters of recommendation.
• Some requirements may restrict applications based on the year of graduation or performance on standardized exams, though specific limitations can vary.

Fellow Responsibilities

The responsibilities of fellows encompass a range of clinical and educational duties. In addition to patient care, fellows are tasked with coordinating clinical activities with medical students and residents. Participation in collaborative discussions, mentoring, and advancing the educational mission of the division form integral parts of a fellow's role.