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Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine

Overview – Geriatrics

ACGME Fellowship Program

The Geriatrics Fellowship Program at The University of Chicago is one of the premiere geriatrics fellowship programs in the country. It is led by Dr. Katherine Thompson, Fellowship Director and Dr. Elizabeth Zavala, Associate Director, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum, nationally recognized faculty, and diverse clinical experiences tailored to prepare fellows for academic, clinical, and leadership roles in geriatrics.

Fellows may train in one of the following tracks:

  • Clinical Geriatric Medicine (Year 1)
  • Geriatric Oncology Program (Geriatric Medicine Year 1)
  • Advanced Research Training (2nd and 3rd years, with a focus on geriatric research)
  • Combined Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine Fellowship (18 months of geriatrics and palliative medicine training and 6 months of research)

Our clinical training programs meet the rigorous standards of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).

Admission Requirements

Minimum qualifications for fellowship applicants include:

  • M.D. or equivalent degree
  • Successful completion of an ACGME-certified Internal Medicine or Family Practice Residency Program
  • U.S. citizen, Canadian citizen, or permanent resident of the U.S. (H1 and J1 visas considered on a case by case basis.)
  • Graduates of medical schools outside the U.S. and Canada, require certification by the USMLE/FLEX

Why Choose The University of Chicago?

  • Nationally recognized faculty with expertise in geriatrics, palliative medicine, and geriatric oncology
  • Diverse training sites, including a top-ranked academic medical center, community-based clinics, long-term care facilities, and home-based care programs
  • Personalized mentorship and career development support
  • Opportunities for research training and collaboration with leading experts in aging, epidemiology, and health services research
  • Strong alumni network, with graduates pursuing careers in academic medicine, health policy, and clinical innovation

University of Chicago Graduate Medical Education (GME)

For information regarding contracts, stipends, Visa and other policies, please visit the GME Resources page.