The American College of Endocrinology and Endocrine University.

Subspecialty training in endocrinology depends in part on local expertise, with fellows having "hands-on" experience in some areas but only "book knowledge" in others. To provide more uniform training in new technologies, The American College of Endocrinology developed Endocrine University, which provides on-site didactic and interactive sessions on thyroid ultrasound, bone densitometry, and other topics over 6 to 7 days. The inaugural event in 2002 was attended by 137 fellows. A second conference in 2003 had capacity attendance of 143. A third course is scheduled for 2004. Fellows pay a token registration fee; the College provides grants to defray the cost of registration, travel, etc. Financial support comes from the College and industry, with plans for an endowment to sustain the program. Fellows value the educational sessions and also the unique opportunity to meet and visit with their peers. This innovative program can serve as a model for other specialties.