East Tennessee State University/Quillen College of Medicine Program

Overview of the Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Fellowship

The Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Fellowship at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Quillen College of Medicine is a comprehensive three-year program designed to prepare fellows for dual board certification in pulmonary disease and critical care medicine. Initiated in 1980, the program has established a solid reputation with over 46 graduates actively practicing in various states across the country. The program received accreditation from the ACGME in 1995 and is committed to delivering state-of-the-art, evidence-based medical care while fostering educational opportunities and promoting research aimed at enhancing human health and disease understanding.

Curriculum and Training Structure

The fellowship program comprises a rigorous curriculum structured over three years, integrating clinical training and research. Each fellow is expected to engage in scholarly activities and research for 3-6 months during their training period, depending on individual interests. Clinical training includes essential rotations through various subspecialty areas such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary vascular diseases, and complex sleep disorders.

Clinical Rotations and Facilities

Fellows participate in hands-on clinical training at multiple teaching hospitals, including Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC), Bristol Regional Medical Center (BRMC), and Holston Valley Medical Center (HVMC). These facilities are pivotal in providing comprehensive training, with fellows serving on multidisciplinary teams in the medical intensive care units. Importantly, JCMC serves as a Level 1 trauma center, allowing fellows to gain experience in high-acuity cases.

At these training sites, fellows conduct pulmonary consultations and participate in specialized procedures such as bronchoscopy and pleural biopsy. Additionally, fellows are involved in outpatient care, with an emphasis on continuity of care for pulmonary disease patients, reinforcing the importance of long-term management strategies.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the fellowship experience, as all fellows are required to engage in research projects. Areas of active research include sleep disordered breathing, asthma, COPD, and fibrosing lung diseases. Collaborative opportunities exist with other departments, lending further support for fellows to publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Teaching Responsibilities

Teaching is highly valued in the program, with fellows taking on educational roles that include instructing interns and residents in clinical settings. Training in physical diagnosis as well as clinical pulmonary physiology is integral, helping to prepare the next generation of healthcare providers.

Application Process and Requirements

Applications for the fellowship are managed through the ERAS system. While the program traditionally welcomes a diverse range of applicants, including DO and IMG candidates, prospects should be aware that the program is highly competitive, and it is recommended to have robust clinical experiences in pulmonary or critical care prior to application. Specific application requirements may include a minimum number of clinical experiences and no more than one failed STEP exam.

Visa Support

The program provides support for international candidates in applying for the necessary visa types. It is common for the program to sponsor J-1 or H-1B visa applications, making it accessible for qualified international medical graduates.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship emphasizes both clinical and basic science research aimed at improving patient care outcomes. Fellows are integrated into multidisciplinary teams that address complex medical conditions, and the program enjoys a collaborative atmosphere with other departments within the College of Medicine. Furthermore, faculty members contribute to the educational experience through their own continuous participation in research and clinical advancements, ensuring fellows receive a well-rounded training.