Duke University Hospital Program

The ACGME-approved Neuromuscular Medicine fellowship at Duke University Hospital is designed for trained neurologists seeking advanced expertise in diagnosing and managing peripheral nerve, neuromuscular junction, and muscle disorders. This fellowship meets the certification requirements of both the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine and the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for additional qualifications in neuromuscular medicine.

One of the program's distinctive features is its commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating an environment where all members can thrive. The fellowship consists of intensive experiences in outpatient neuromuscular clinics, inpatient consultations, as well as extensive training in the electromyography (EMG) laboratory, where fellows acquire proficiency in standard electrodiagnostic techniques. Opportunities to learn advanced EMG techniques such as single-fiber electromyography are also available. Furthermore, the curriculum includes EMG-guided chemodenervation for treating conditions like dystonia and spasticity, as well as training in neuromuscular ultrasound, skin biopsies, and needle muscle biopsies.

Scheduled conferences provide fellows with insights into peripheral nerve and muscle pathology, including genetic factors related to neuromuscular diseases. Clinical research is encouraged, with fellows expected to participate in a publication-worthy project during their tenure. For those interested in deepening their expertise, a second year of advanced fellowship training can be arranged, focusing on developing superior electrodiagnostic skills, clinical trial design, data management, and statistical analysis.

Training and Rotations

Fellows will spend significant time in various training rotations, developing competencies in diagnostics and interventions pertinent to neuromuscular medicine. Clinical exposure will cover diverse facets of neuromuscular disorders, enhancing fellows' skills in interpreting complex clinical cases.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship promotes active involvement in clinical research, giving fellows the chance to collaborate on innovative research projects relating to neuromuscular diseases. Opportunities to explore genetic, immunologic, and histopathologic investigations are also available during the advanced fellowship year.

Visa Support

The fellowship program provides visa support for applicants holding J-1 visas, and consideration may extend to other visa types on a case-by-case basis. This is especially pertinent for international medical graduates (IMGs) who must demonstrate that their visa permits completion of the fellowship.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Duke's Neuromuscular Medicine fellowship is competitive. While specifics regarding the acceptance of DO or IMG candidates can vary, the program clarifies its openness to all qualified applicants. Special application considerations include the requirement that applicants must have completed an accredited neurology residency and must be in good standing with no maximum failed STEP exams specified for application.

Application Timeline and Requirements

The application process will utilize the universal timeline supported by the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM). All applicants may submit their applications via the AANEM Fellowship Portal. Key dates include:

• January 1: Upload documents to the AANEM portal.
• March 1: Programs may review applications starting this date.
• March 2 – May 31: Interviews will be conducted.
• June 1: Offers will be made.

The fellowship regularly encourages a rigorous application process to ensure only the most qualified candidates are selected.

Health and Wellness Resources

The Duke Neurology Department prioritizes the health and wellness of its fellows, offering various support resources, including mental health services, reporting mechanisms for mistreatment or safety concerns, and protocols for urgent mental health needs.