Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Emory University School of Medicine's Medical Toxicology Fellowship offers a comprehensive two-year program that integrates clinical training, research opportunities, and public health education. Initiated in 2000, this fellowship has successfully graduated 50 physicians through the end of the 2024 academic year, preparing fellows for careers in medical toxicology within diverse specialties including emergency medicine, internal medicine, and family medicine.

The program is unique to the Atlanta region, providing fellows with exposure to an array of toxicological scenarios. The training is conducted in collaboration with notable institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), and the Georgia Poison Center, allowing fellows to benefit from a multi-disciplinary approach to medical toxicology 1.

Clinical Experience

Fellows partake in a busy consult service that spans four hospitals with a combined emergency department volume exceeding 300,000 patients annually. The Georgia Poison Center, one of the busiest in the U.S., handles approximately 90,000 calls each year, providing an unparalleled clinical experience 1. Additionally, fellows actively staff outpatient clinics addressing occupational and environmental toxicology, and they engage in managing opioid use disorders, thus gaining hands-on experience in a variety of toxicological pathologies.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship provides robust research opportunities, especially focusing on addiction medicine and global health. Current fellows engage in active research projects and have the chance to secure funding from federal agencies like NIH and CDC 4. Notable research initiatives include a novel approach to buprenorphine inductions in rural emergency departments and studies using peer recovery coaches 4. Fellows also have avenues to present their work at national conferences and contribute to publications in renowned medical journals 4.

Training and Curriculum

The training structure is divided between two years: first-year fellows gain experience at the Georgia Poison Center, focusing on medical consultations and the bedside evaluation of poisoned patients. In the second year, training shifts to the CDC, where fellows delve into epidemiological research and public health investigations related to chemical exposures 5. The curriculum is designed to develop independent investigators through clinical practice, research, and participation in training courses related to preparedness and response strategies to toxicological emergencies.

Teaching Involvement

Fellows are also actively involved in teaching, taking on roles as instructors for various courses after completing foundational training. They have opportunities to present lectures to residents across multiple specialties and to engage in public health trainings through the CDC 6. This multifaceted teaching experience fosters mentorship capabilities in emerging toxicologists.

Outbreak Investigations

An exemplary aspect of this fellowship is its engagement with outbreak investigations, a rarity among ACGME-accredited programs. Fellows work alongside CDC epidemiologists to conduct investigations on hazardous material exposures and their health consequences, experiencing real-world public health responses 7. Previous investigations have included cases ranging from synthetic cannabinoid clusters to pesticide exposure assessments following natural disasters, exemplifying the program's commitment to public health 7.

Support and Financial Resources

The fellowship values the financial welfare of its participants, offering full funding that aligns with PGY year salary guidelines 1. This financial support enables fellows the flexibility to pursue moonlighting, should they choose to, while not mandating clinical shifts. Furthermore, fellows are funded to attend two medical toxicology conferences each year, enhancing their networking and professional growth opportunities.

Visa Support

The program supports international applicants in obtaining the necessary visa documentation. Specifically, it facilitates sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visa types, accommodating international medical graduates wishing to join the fellowship 1. This inclusivity emphasizes the program's commitment to diversifying its fellows’ backgrounds.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Emory Medical Toxicology Fellowship is known to be highly competitive, emphasizing applications from diverse backgrounds, including both MD and DO graduates as well as international medical graduates 1. The program typically allows candidates to apply within specific parameters that may include graduation year and prior exam attempts, ensuring a well-rounded selection process 1.

Living in Atlanta

Residing in Atlanta, fellows enjoy the vibrant culture and diversity the city has to offer. With access to numerous restaurants, parks, and recreational activities, Atlanta serves as an excellent backdrop for both work and leisure. The city is conveniently located near the Appalachian Mountains and several coastal locations, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities 1.