Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital Program

The Epilepsy Fellowship is an ACGME-accredited program at a Level 4 NEAC Epilepsy Center based in Northern New England. The fellowship is designed to provide comprehensive training in both medical and surgical management of epilepsy, catering to both adult and pediatric patients with this neurological condition. This program is characterized by a combination of clinical responsibilities, mentorship, and opportunities for research, which pave the way for future leaders in the field of epilepsy.

The mission of the program is to guide and educate physicians in developing the necessary skills and expertise to provide safe and effective treatments for epilepsy. The program aims to train physicians who can independently practice in the field, promote advancements in epilepsy surgery, and prepare candidates for academic epilepsy practice. The fellowship encompasses a robust curriculum focusing on key competencies such as the outpatient management of refractory epilepsy, long-term video EEG interpretation, surgical decision-making, and clinical research, among others 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum encompasses both clinical and educational components. Clinical responsibilities are divided among various settings including the adult/pediatric epilepsy monitoring unit, outpatient epilepsy clinic, routine EEG reading, and participation in the epilepsy surgery and EEG conferences. Fellows are also encouraged to engage in research projects tailored to their interests 3.

Clinical Rotations

The fellow’s training includes rotations in:

• Adult/Pediatric video EEG monitoring
• Adult/Pediatric outpatient epilepsy clinic
• Outpatient EEG IOM/ICU
• Epilepsy surgery conference

Additionally, fellows acquire special skills in functional mapping with intracranial electrodes, surgical planning using SEEG approaches, Telemedicine, and programming Neuropace devices. Educational requirements further include attendance at a systematic lecture series focused on epilepsy 3.

Research Opportunities

Fellows in the program are encouraged to undertake research projects during their fellowship. Research interests can vary widely and may focus on areas such as the treatment of seizures and cognitive impairment related to epilepsy. Each fellow has access to mentorship from the attending faculty, facilitating a supportive research environment 1.

Application Process

The application process is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) with participation in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). The program offers two positions at the PGY-5 level each year. Applicants are evaluated based on multiple criteria including academic performance, motivation, and interpersonal skills. The program suggests an early application submission, with the deadline set for December 6 5.

Application Requirements

Applicants should prepare the following:

• Minimum of three letters of recommendation, with one from the current residency program director
• Curriculum Vitae
• Personal statement
• USMLE scores
• Medical school transcript and Dean’s letter

Additionally, the program supports a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with broader institutional missions 5.

Visa Support

The fellowship is equipped to support international applicants by providing visa sponsorship. The specific types of visas that can be sponsored typically include J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing international medical graduates to complete their training in the United States. This consideration for international candidates makes the program more accessible to a global pool of applicants, fostering an enriching learning environment through diverse perspectives 5.

Competitiveness

The Epilepsy Fellowship at Dartmouth is considered highly competitive, with a select number of positions available each year. The program welcomes a variety of applicants, including those from Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) backgrounds and International Medical Graduates (IMGs), thereby promoting diversity among fellows 1.

Faculty

The fellowship boasts a remarkable faculty team comprising experts in the field of epilepsy and neurophysiology. The faculty is committed to providing mentorship and guidance throughout the fellowship, ensuring that fellows receive a well-rounded education 4.