Advanced IBD Fellowship Support Program

The Advanced IBD Fellowship Support Program (IBD-START) is designed to provide recognition to medical institutions with an Advanced IBD Fellowship (PGY-7) program and to support the next generation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) healthcare professionals during their advanced fellowship by investing in their medical training, mentorship opportunities, and engagement within the Foundation. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be recognized by the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, the following criteria must be met by the institution’s Advanced IBD Fellowship program:

An ACGME-accredited gastroenterology fellowship program or equivalent
An active Advanced (PGY-7) IBD Fellowship program
The opportunity to host a minimum of 1 Fellow per year during a yearlong rotation
A multidisciplinary collaborative team including gastroenterologist, colorectal surgeons, radiologist, pathologists, nutritionist, and other specialists involved in IBD care
A dedicated IBD program that provides adequate clinical exposure to patients with IBD, ensuring fellow gains extensive clinical experience
A curriculum that covers the full spectrum of IBD management, including diagnosis, treatment options, surgical interventions, and the latest research developments
Access to ongoing clinical trials and research projects, allowing fellows to participate in cutting-edge studies
Access to a wide range of resources, including lectures, workshops, and seminars, to enhance learning
A strong mentorship program that provides fellows with guidance and support throughout their training

Advanced IBD Fellow Awardee

To be considered for recognition by the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, the following criteria must be met:

Accepted an advanced IBD fellowship position at a medical institution recognized by the Foundation (see list above)
Demonstrate a strong focus on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) clinical care and research
Provide letters of recommendation, including one from your current program director
Submit a personal statement describing your interest in IBD
Include a current curriculum vitae (CV)
Express a commitment to continuing practice in the United States
Show current or intended engagement with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

Fellow and Medical Institution Benefits

If an Advanced IBD Fellow is selected to receive recognition from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, the following benefits will be provided:

- Medical Institution Benefits

Eligibility to apply for financial support to cover costs associated with the Advanced IBD Fellow position (e.g., salary, benefits) based on revenue gap
Host institution stipend
Financial support for travel and expenses for advanced fellow to attend the Crohn’s & Colitis Congress

- Advanced IBD Fellow Benefits

Engagement and support from the Foundation
Networking and mentorship opportunities from experienced IBD specialists
Career counseling and professional development support
Complimentary professional Foundation membership
Travel and accommodations covered for the Crohn’s & Colitis Congress

Supporting Faculty

Our Advanced IBD Fellowship Program Committee consists of members from the foundation's National Scientific Advisory Committee - Professional Education Subcommittee. This committee plays several crucial roles:

Establishing vetting criteria and review process for recognizing Advanced IBD Fellowship programs nationwide
Developing selection criteria and reviewing applications from fellows of approved Advanced IBD Fellowship programs
Designing additional curriculum components and creating supplementary learning opportunities for fellows
Provide ongoing support and guidance to fellows throughout their training

The committee's multifaceted involvement ensures high standards are maintained across Advanced IBD Fellowship programs while offering comprehensive support to fellows as they develop expertise in this specialized field.