Get to know William Torelli, DO, rheumatology fellow.

Career goal: Work in clinical education

“LVHN fostered my desire to educate residents.” 

What makes your LVHN training program different from others across the country?

LVHN rheumatology fellowship program was very balanced between education, clinical responsibilities and research. I was properly mentored during my tenure at LVHN, and had the opportunity to present my quality improvement project at our national rheumatology conference in Atlanta in 2019.

I had the privilege to incorporate musculoskeletal ultrasound into my clinical practice, which was invaluable. I was accepted into USSONAR, which is a selective national course in musculoskeletal ultrasound for rheumatology fellows. 

What has been the most unique part of your training experience so far? 

As fellows, we were always encouraged to use the microscope in our lab to look at synovial fluid samples that we collected from patients. I was able to catch a case of pancreatitis as a cause for inflammatory arthritis by identifying a lipid crystal from a synovial fluid sample collected from an ankle arthrocentesis. This was a very atypical presentation of a common illness, and I was able to present the case at our national conference in Atlanta in 2019.

What is one memory you have from your training so far that will stick with you for your career?

I will always remember having the privilege to educate internal medicine residents about rheumatic illness in the lecture hall and on rounds. LVHN fostered my desire to educate residents, and generate interest in rheumatology in the internal medicine residency program. 

What is one piece of advice you would share with someone as they select a training program? 

Choose a program where you feel comfortable with your faculty and co-workers. You want to choose a program where the learning environment is relaxed and professional. 

What does it mean to be a fellow at LVHN?

You’re going to be put into a position to succeed – what you do with that opportunity is totally up to you.

Rheumatology Fellowship

Learn more about LVHN’s Rheumatology Fellowship program.

Program overview