Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Interventional Pulmonary Fellowship at Emory University School of Medicine represents a one-year intense training program designed to fully immerse the trainee in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures relevant to interventional pulmonology. This fellowship encapsulates exposure across numerous pivotal facilities, including Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, and Grady Memorial Hospital. Furthermore, a consultation service is rendered to both the Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, ensuring a broad and diverse clinical experience.

During the fellowship program, the fellow will engage in more than 2,000 procedures under direct supervision from five formally trained interventional pulmonologists. This comprehensive exposure empowers graduates of the program to adeptly manage a variety of pulmonary, complex airway, and pleural diseases. Additionally, fellows will cultivate the requisite skills for establishing or joining academic interventional pulmonary programs.

The curriculum is enhanced through active participation in multiple conferences throughout the year, including a weekly multidisciplinary thoracic oncology tumor board and various other educational series focused on interventional pulmonary, interstitial lung diseases, and complex airway management.1

Fellowship Structure

The Interventional Pulmonology fellowship encompasses rigorous clinical training, with fellows responsible for weekly multidisciplinary tracheostomy rounds and implementation of a specially designed decannulation protocol. A key component of the training involves the completion of at least one original research project, with encouragement to present findings at a national meeting by the conclusion of the fellowship year.1

Application Requirements

Applicants to the program are selected through the National Resident Match Program (NRMP). Key eligibility criteria include:

• Eligibility for a full Georgia medical license
• US Citizenship or permanent residency, as the program cannot sponsor Visa candidates
• Completion of a Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellowship prior to application

The application must be submitted via the common application found on the Association of Interventional Pulmonology Program Directors (AIPPD) website, with a deadline set for September 1.1

Clinical Services

Emory's Interventional Pulmonology program is known for its breadth of advanced techniques and procedures that substantially enhance the diagnostic, staging, and treatment pathways for lung cancers, pulmonary nodules, and a myriad of airway diseases. Recognized as the most comprehensive program of its kind within Georgia, it provides access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for treating both lung and pleural diseases. The program's focus on innovative and minimally invasive procedures positions it among the frontline of interventional pulmonology nationwide.3

Research Opportunities

A crucial element of the program is its dedication to research and education aimed at the advancement of interventional pulmonology. Fellows are expected to engage in ongoing research studies tied to interventional procedures, contributing to scholarly presentations at national and international meetings. The program sets an expectation of producing and presenting at least one research study, with an emphasis on developing a solid foundation in clinical research methodologies including literature review, data analysis, and direct contributions to ongoing trials.4

Visa Support

Currently, the program does not offer sponsorship for J-1 or H-1B visas, thereby restricting eligibility to US citizens and permanent residents only. This aspect renders the program less accessible for international medical graduates seeking fellowship opportunities in the United States.1

Competitiveness and Candidate Profile

The fellowship is considered highly competitive, with a strong preference for candidates who have completed related residency training. Previous success in obtaining a Pulmonary & Critical Care Fellowship is notably essential, setting a selective precedent for candidates aspiring to join the fellowship.1