Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Emory University Allergy/Immunology Fellowship Program is an ACGME accredited two-year fellowship situated within the esteemed Division of Allergy/Immunology in the Department of Pediatrics. This program aims to cultivate clinicians proficient in diagnosing and managing allergic and immunologic conditions, thereby preparing them for a versatile range of career pathways, whether in academic or community settings.

The Emory fellowship is committed to providing comprehensive clinical training that spans various rotations and experiences. The primary pediatric clinical setting is located at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Center for Advanced Pediatrics. During the first year, fellows establish their patient panel through an individualized continuity clinic, ensuring a hands-on approach while under the supervision of attending physicians who provide feedback and guidance.

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum is designed to enhance both clinical and managerial skills. In the first year, fellows receive training in outpatient adult experiences at the Emory Clinic and the Grady Asthma and Allergy Clinic. Additional exposure occurs through inpatient services, where fellows engage in consults for Allergy/Immunology in both pediatric and adult settings, including Emory University Hospital and Grady Memorial Hospital. Clinics give fellows the chance to integrate learning by providing care to patients after discharge.5

The second year is more focused on research, where fellows work under the mentorship of experienced faculty to develop a hypothesis-driven research project. The goal is to culminate in the publication of a manuscript or the preparation of a grant proposal. Fellows are also encouraged to lead fellowships during rounds while supervising residents, reinforcing team-based learning⁵.

Research Initiatives

The program places significant emphasis on research and quality improvement projects. Fellows have opportunities to engage in quality improvement initiatives, with some recent focuses including the early introduction of peanut in high-risk infants and enhancing families' competency with epinephrine autoinjectors. This research component is facilitated through collaboration with the quality improvement scholarship team and the dedicated Scholarship Oversight Committee, allowing fellows to tailor their projects according to individual interests⁵.

Community Outreach and Advocacy

The mission of the Allergy and Immunology division extends beyond clinical care; it includes advocacy and community engagement. The division actively addresses issues like food insecurity in families affected by food allergies and aims to eliminate access barriers to specialized care for underrepresented populations. Fellows are encouraged to partake in outreach initiatives, enhancing their roles as advocates for children and families facing these challenges⁴.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must have completed an accredited internal medicine, pediatric, or combined residency program by the beginning of the fellowship. All applicants are required to obtain medical licensure in Georgia prior to starting the program. The selection process is highly competitive, with emphasis placed on providing a strong foundation in clinical care and a commitment to advocacy and research. Interviews for the fellowship typically take place from September through October, and applicant selection is managed through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) ⁵.

Visa Support

The Emory University Allergy/Immunology Fellowship Program provides visa support for qualified international applicants, typically through J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorships. This facilitates an inclusive atmosphere where international medical graduates can pursue advanced training in the program.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the distinctive features of the program is its commitment to equity and diversity within the medical workforce. The division endeavors to create an environment that fosters diverse perspectives through varied educational experiences for learners from various backgrounds. Opportunities for collaboration and training are extended beyond the core curriculum, including visiting resident experiences and journal clubs for continuous engagement in the field of Allergy/Immunology³.