The WVU Rheumatology Fellowship is structured as a two-year program dedicated to training fellows in a comprehensive range of rheumatologic disorders. The program covers various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, gout, and numerous autoimmune diseases associated with connective tissues. Each year, the program offers one fellowship position, ensuring a focused and personalized educational experience for fellows.
Fellows participate in rotations with multiple specialties, enhancing their training through exposure to orthopedics, metabolic bone health, physical medicine and rehabilitation, neurology, dermatology, ophthalmology, and radiology. This diverse training is supplemented by regular academic gatherings, including Rheumatology Conferences, Journal Club, Grand Rounds, Research Conference, Clinical Case Conference, and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) State of the Art (SOTA) events, further cementing the fellows' clinical and research skills.
Training Sites
The primary clinical activities occur at West Virginia University Hospitals, particularly Ruby Memorial Hospital. This facility is recognized as a 690-bed tertiary referral center, providing fellows with a robust infrastructure and a wide variety of patient cases to study and manage.
Research Opportunities
Research is a crucial component of the fellowship. Fellows have the opportunity to engage in clinical research, paving the way for contributions to the field of rheumatology. This aspect of the program helps fellows develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for a career in academic medicine or research-oriented practice.
Visa Support
The program actively sponsors J-1 Visas exclusively; however, it does not sponsor H-1B Visas. This indicates that international applicants seeking to join the program must be aware of these visa regulations and should prepare their applications accordingly.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The WVU Rheumatology Fellowship is highly competitive, attracting a diverse array of applicants. It is open to both US graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs), emphasizing a welcoming approach to candidates from various backgrounds. Notably, the program does not impose strict cut-offs for exam scores or geographic location, promoting inclusivity. Interested applicants must apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and participate in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).
Applicants must comply with several specific requirements: a graduate from an ACGME-accredited internal medicine residency program, possession of a valid ECFMG certification for foreign medical graduates, and eligibility for a full and unrestricted medical license in West Virginia. While no minimum USMLE score is required, applicants must secure three letters of recommendation and acknowledgment of institution and program policies from all candidates invited for an interview.
Alumni and Current Fellows
The fellowship has a track record of cultivating skilled rheumatologists, with current fellows functioning at various levels within the program. With ongoing alumni engagement, the program maintains a connection that aids in networking and career advancement.
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Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,176First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Morgantown, WV
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Living in Morgantown, WV
Morgantown, WV is a city known for its vibrant community and beautiful nature. Here are some key aspects of living in Morgantown:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Morgantown has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities. The city is considered safe, especially in residential areas and around the university campus.
- Fun Activities: Morgantown offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports due to its proximity to the Monongahela River and Coopers Rock State Forest. The city also has a lively downtown area with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
- Climate: Morgantown experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are pleasant with colorful foliage.
- Races and Population: Morgantown has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities, including a significant student population due to West Virginia University.
- Education: Morgantown is home to West Virginia University, providing opportunities for cultural events, sports, and educational resources.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Morgantown is relatively affordable, with reasonable housing prices and overall living expenses.
- Nearby Cities: Pittsburgh, PA, is the nearest major city to Morgantown, located approximately 75 miles away and can be reached in about 1.5 hours by car. Pittsburgh offers a wide range of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues.