The Advanced Esophageal Disease Fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Arizona recruits trainees from the U.S. and around the globe. Learn more about our current fellow below.

Laura Bach, D.O.

Medical school: Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Downers Grove, IL
Residency: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, Park Ridge, IL

What attracted you to gastroenterology? In medical school, I found the pathophysiology of the digestive tract fascinating. I also knew early on that I wanted to practice in a specialty with equal clinic and procedure time, making gastroenterology a natural fit. Gastroenterology sees a wide variety of patients, from young to old, with the opportunity to care for patients for a short period of time or over the course of many years. The depth and breadth of knowledge, diversity of patients, as well as technical skill required to practice was a perfect fit for me.

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for fellowship training? Mayo Clinic has a world-renowned reputation as a leader in gastroenterology. The faculty also serves as outstanding mentors. Training at Mayo Clinic exposes you to complex patients and procedures, with bountiful opportunities for research and career development.

What makes the Advanced Esophageal Disease Fellowship at Mayo Clinic unique? There are very few programs in the nation that offer sub-specialization in esophageal diseases. The Advanced Esophageal Disease Fellowship at Mayo offers trainees exposure to a wide variety of esophageal diseases with the opportunity to focus one’s training in their area of clinical interest. We receive training in multiple diagnostic and therapeutic modalities including esophageal manometry, EndoFLIP, Bravo, complex esophageal dilation including pneumatic dilation, Barrett’s RFA, cryotherapy and endoscopic mucosal resection. The curriculum includes a number of multidisciplinary clinics and conferences attended by ENT, speech therapy, foregut surgeons, allergy medicine, GI psychologists, and nutritionists. There are a number of opportunities to becomevolved in research, writing and career development. There is also the opportunity to rotate at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Lastly, the faculty are incredible! They are exceptional teachers and mentors. They are truly what makes the program a unique and outstanding educational experience.

What does your future look like right now? The future is bright! My career goal is to practice as an esophagologist in a major academic center and there are a number where my specific skillset would be a valued asset. The fellowship has a reputation for placing graduates in centers of excellence. I’m excited for the opportunities that lie ahead!