Boston University Medical Center Program

The Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship at Boston University Medical Center is a one-year ACGME-accredited program designed for graduates of ACGME-accredited neurology residency training programs. The program focuses on the diagnosis and management of a wide range of neuromuscular disorders, providing in-depth training and clinical exposure necessary for developing expertise in this specialized field.

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum encompasses a rich array of clinical experiences and didactic learning opportunities. Fellows will engage in comprehensive training that includes patient consultations, diagnosis, treatment planning, and participation in clinical neurophysiology conferences. The program prioritizes hands-on experience through various inpatient and outpatient settings.

Training Sites

Fellows will conduct their training at significant healthcare facilities, which enhance their learning experiences. The primary training sites include:

• Boston Medical Center (BMC) Shapiro Ambulatory Care Center: This facility provides both inpatient and outpatient consultations alongside comprehensive electrodiagnostic testing and procedures.
• Veteran’s Administration Boston Healthcare System: Covers both Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury locations offering a full range of services for neuromuscular disorders.

Diagnostic Testing and Procedures

During the fellowship, trainees will have access to a robust EMG laboratory capable of accommodating patients of all ages, including adults, children, and infants. The laboratory performs over 1800 studies annually, which include:

• Routine Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography (EMG)
• Single Fiber EMG
• Laryngeal EMG for voice and phonation disorders
• Ischemic forearm testing for metabolic muscle diseases
• EMG-guided botulinum toxin injections

Research Opportunities

The fellowship program emphasizes research, encouraging trainees to engage with faculty in various projects. The faculty comprises accomplished researchers with extensive publications in novel EMG techniques, special electrode development, and studies on peripheral neuropathies, myasthenia gravis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Competitiveness and Eligibility

The Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship is considered competitive, and applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited neurology residency. International medical graduates (IMGs) and DOs are welcome to apply, reflecting the program's commitment to inclusivity and diverse training backgrounds.

Special Application Requirements

In order to apply for the fellowship, candidates must meet specific requirements. This includes having graduated from an ACGME-accredited neurology residency. Previous failures of the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) are also considered during the application process, with an emphasis on the capabilities demonstrated in other examinations.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers visa support for international trainees. Generally, the program can sponsor J-1 visas, which allow for educational and training exchanges for graduates of foreign medical schools. It is advisable for potential applicants to confirm current visa support options during the application process.

Patient Referrals and Faculty

Referrals to the program typically come from primary care physicians, and patients seeking routine evaluations and second opinions are encouraged to contact the program directly. The faculty at the Shapiro Ambulatory Care Center includes several board-certified neurologists specializing in neuromuscular disorders, who are dedicated to providing comprehensive education and care.