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Rheumatology Fellowship Program

Rheumatology Fellowship

The UNMHSC, Division of Rheumatology provides ACGME accredited fellowship training in Rheumatology. The Division’s two-year program is currently funded for four fellows annually—two enter the program each year.
Fellows receive:

Extensive inpatient and outpatient clinical experience covering a wide range of rheumatic diseases at the University of New Mexico and the Albuquerque Veterans Administration Medical Center.
Four weekly continuity Clinics at VA and UNM
Weekly Educational Conferences and Journal Club
Dedicated pediatric rheumatology clinic experience, and longitudinal education in transitions of care from UNM’s Carrie Tingley Children’s Hospital to adult rheumatology experience
Dedicated training in ultrasound and palpation guided injections
Weekly training and experience in onsite infusion centers
Monthly MOC Board Review
Monthly Musculoskeletal Radiology conference in conjunction with UNM Radiology
Off-service electives in Neuromusclar Disease (EMG/NCS), Pediatric Rheumatology, Orthopedics (including hand orthopedics and podiatry) and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

The Division requires each fellow to participate ina scholarly/research project during the program. Fellows are expected to attend and present an abstract at the annual ACR Convergence meeting at least once during fellowship.

UNM Rheumatology fellows publish at least 1 scholarly article per year, often more. They present research at ACR, Western Medical Research Conference in Carmel and others.

The UNM Rheumatology Fellowship has a 100% board pass rate, attributed to excellent clinical exposure and education, a board review curriculum and extended course implementation.

How to Apply

The Division of Rheumatology Fellowship Program only accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Applications are accepted beginning in July and must be completed by September. Interviews will begin in the middle of September and conclude no later than November.

Applicants must include:
Completed application
Three (3) letters of recommendation from academic physicians you have worked with in the United States
A dean’s letter
A certified copy of your official medical school transcript
A current curriculum vitae (dated)
Personal statement
Passing USMLE scores on step 1, 2, and 3

Foreign graduates must have:

A valid ECFMG certificate with Clinical Skills Assessment® Certification
Green card, J-1 visa or documentation of US citizenship

Fellowship Program Directors

Program Director

Maheswari Muruganandam, MD
DoIM Rheumatology Division
1 University of New Mexico MSC 10-5550
Albuquerque, NM 87131
Phone: 505-272-4761

VA Site Director

Vijayalakshmi Kumar, MD
Albuquerque Veterans Association Medical Center
Albuquerque, NM

For Additional Information

Office: 505-272-4761

Email: HSC-DOIMRheumatology@salud.unm.edu

René Forsythe
Medical Education Program Coordinator
Phone: 505-272-5666
Email: rforsythe@salud.unm.edu

Jackie Cremar
Unit Administrator
Phone: 505-272-4761
Fax: 505-272-3624
Email: JCremar@salud.unm.edu

Current Fellows

Senior Fellows

Morvarid Kavosh, MD

Where did you complete residency?

I completed my Internal Medicine Residency program at South Brooklyn Health, New York.

Why do you love Rheumatology?

I have a close connection to individuals affected by rheumatologic diseases, which has given me a unique empathy for patients and a deep understanding of their experiences. Coupled with my background in basic science, I am fascinated by the complex immunological and molecular mechanisms underlying autoimmune conditions. The dynamic and rapidly advancing nature of Rheumatology motivates me, as it offers endless opportunities to integrate the most advanced research into clinical practice. I am excited to contribute to the scientific advancements in this field and improve patient outcomes through evidence-based, compassionate care.

Why did you choose New Mexico?

People in New Mexico make this land a truly unique place, and I have had the privilege of learning about its special blend of cultures and diverse patient population. Additionally, the beautiful landscapes and supportive medical community make New Mexico an ideal place to grow both personally and professionally.

Jigisha Rakholiya, MD

Where did you complete residency?

UCHealth Parkview Medical Center

Why do you love Rheumatology?

Rheumatology, to me, is more than just a medical specialty. It offers a unique blend of science and art, requiring a thorough diagnostic approach. Also, I desire to help patients live with minimal disease activity, enabling them to perform routine activities. This goal is now achievable thanks to continuous pharmacological advancements, leading to life-changing transformations for many patients. I am excited to embark on this fellowship journey, continuously learn, and contribute to my future patients' well-being.

Why did you choose New Mexico?

I chose UNM for its diverse coverage of rheumatic diseases, providing extensive inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. The culture at UNM is friendly and supportive.

Junior Fellows

Shuhei Hattori, MD

Where did you complete residency?

UCHealth Parkview Medical Center

Why do you love Rheumatology?

Rheumatology, to me, is more than just a medical specialty. It offers a unique blend of science and art, requiring a thorough diagnostic approach. Additionally, I aim to help patients manage their disease with minimal activity, allowing them to perform their daily activities without restriction. This goal is now achievable thanks to continuous advancements in pharmacology, leading to life-changing transformations for many patients. I am excited to embark on this fellowship journey, continuously learn, and contribute to my future patients' well-being.

Why did you choose New Mexico?

I chose UNM for its diverse coverage of rheumatic diseases, providing extensive inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. The culture at UNM is friendly and supportive.

Dania Kaur, MD

Where did you complete residency?

North Alabama Medical Center

Why do you love Rheumatology?

I have a personal connection to Rheumatology, having witnessed several family members navigate life with autoimmune conditions. This firsthand experience sparked my interest in the field and continues to fuel my commitment to it. What I find especially meaningful about Rheumatology is the opportunity to build long-term, trusting relationships with patients—not just on a professional level, but often on a deeply personal one as well. It is rewarding to walk alongside patients as they manage their conditions, celebrate improvements, and achieve remission.

Why did you choose New Mexico?

New Mexico has a very distinctive patient population, shaped by a rich blend of cultural and geographic influences. Training in this region offers invaluable exposure to a wide spectrum of rheumatologic diseases, including conditions that may present differently due to genetic, environmental, or cultural influences. The diversity in clinical presentations will enhance my diagnostic acumen and broaden my understanding of autoimmune diseases in different patient populations. Additionally, New Mexico’s rich history and unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures have been fascinating to explore. Its natural beauty and pleasant climate make it a truly special place.

Past Fellows

Past Fellows

Fatma Dihowm, MD

Adarsh Vangala, MD

Eyerusalem Akpan, MD

Meredith Keller, DO

Angie Ariza-Hutchinson, MD

Rosemina Patel, MD

Ashan Iqbal, MD

Sumir Brahmbhatt, MD

Adnan Kiani, MD

David Cisneros, MD

Jaren Trost, MD

Fatemeh Jafari Farshami, MD

Maheswari Muruganandam, MD

Noelle Rolle, MD

Sabeen Yaqub, MD

James Bennett, MD

Romy Cabacungan, MD

Tej Bhasvar, MD

Timothy Moore, MD

Luis Salayandia, MD

Basmah Jalil, MD

Santhi Penmetsa, MD

Tony Makhlouf, MD

Yumna Thariani, MD

N. Suzanne Emil, MD

Hillary Norton, MD

Colbert Chavez, MD

Suzanne DeLea, MD

Natalia Chavez-Chiang, MD

Kye Park, MD

Explore Our Fellowship

Train and research alongside patient care experts in the UNM Division of Rheumatology. Our mission is to provide outstanding clinical care to all patients with rheumatic disease, while advancing the discipline of rheumatology through cutting edge research and training the next generation of rheumatologists.

More about Project ECHO

Learn how ECHO expands rheumatology treatment capacity underserved areas.

Hear From a Fellow

Jaren Trost, MD

ACR2019

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Explore Our Fellowship

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More about Project ECHO

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Hear From a Fellow

Contact the Division of Rheumatology

Division of Rheumatology

Department of Internal Medicine

MSC10-5550

1 University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM 87131

Phone: 505-272-4761

Fax: 505-272-3624