Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship at Emory University School of Medicine is a one-year program that is designed to enhance the fellow's technical skills and clinical knowledge within the field of clinical neurophysiology. The fellowship operates at the PGY-5 level and is focused on comprehensive training in neurophysiological techniques.

Through close collaboration with the Neuromuscular and Epilepsy services, fellows gain proficiency in the performance and interpretation of various neurophysiological assessments, including nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), electroencephalography (EEG), long-term video/EEG monitoring, and evoked potentials. Additional experience can also be obtained in intraoperative monitoring (IOM) and sleep disorders, although these areas are not specifically emphasized in the program.

Clinical Experience

The program provides fellows with extensive clinical exposure through outpatient services, particularly in the Epilepsy and Neuromuscular specialty clinics, as well as inpatient services. At the conclusion of the program, fellows will be eligible to sit for the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Clinical Neurophysiology Boards and other relevant certifications through the American Board of Electrodiagnostic and Neuromuscular Medicine (AANEM). There is the potential for a two-year experience by combining the fellowship with an Epilepsy Fellowship, allowing for deeper clinical and research pursuits.

Training Tracks

Fellows can choose from two training tracks: General Clinical Neurophysiology (CNP) or CNP with an emphasis on Epilepsy. General CNP fellows typically spend approximately three months on the Emory epilepsy service and another three months with the Emory Neuromuscular service, with the remaining time dedicated to either epilepsy or neuromuscular services at Grady Memorial Hospital. Conversely, fellows focusing on Epilepsy generally spend around ten months in EEG/epilepsy-related training, allocating just two months to other aspects of clinical neurophysiology.

Training Sites

Emory University Hospital, as a major training site, is a quaternary care facility with over 700 beds that specializes in acutely ill adult patients and offers comprehensive stroke care and epilepsy services. Grady Memorial Hospital, another key site, is one of the largest hospitals in Georgia, equipped with nearly 1000 beds and recognized as a Level 1 trauma center, fostering a wealth of clinical opportunities in neurocritical care and trauma.

Fellowship Offerings

The fellowship curriculum encompasses a wide range of didactic teaching sessions, including: Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship Lecture Series, weekly Combined Neurophysiology Conferences, Epilepsy surgery conferences, Grand Rounds, and more. Fellows are also encouraged to complete the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine in-service exam and the American Clinical Neurophysiology Society in-service exam. Training ensures fellows are well-prepared for future board certifications in electrodiagnostic medicine as well as clinical neurophysiology.

Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must complete an application through ERAS, as selections for interviews are decided by the Program Faculty Members. It is crucial for prospective fellows to have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in relevant fields such as neurology, child neurology, neurodevelopmental disabilities, or psychiatry.

Visa Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates, particularly for J-1 or H-1B visa types, ensuring that eligible candidates receive appropriate assistance throughout the application and training process.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

This fellowship is considered highly competitive, with a focus on individuals who have demonstrated substantial commitment to neurophysiology and neurology. Candidates must meet specific application requirements, including a maximum number of failed U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step exams.