Emory University School of Medicine Program

The program in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine aims to equip future neonatologists with comprehensive training through a curriculum emphasizing clinical skills, research capabilities, and teaching proficiency. The program stands out for its robust blend of clinical and academic training, ensuring fellows gain invaluable experience in one of the largest neonatal services in the United States. Strongly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the program supports a nurturing and rigorous academic environment.

Curriculum Overview

The training period is structured as a three-year fellowship, with one-third of the time dedicated to direct clinical training. The program emphasizes an education-based approach rather than a service-oriented one, facilitated by a cohort of 34 masters-trained neonatal nurse practitioners and a diverse faculty comprising 27 MD and 5 PhD members. The clinical training includes exposure to advanced techniques such as high-frequency ventilation and ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), fostering competence in managing complex neonatal cases.

Elective opportunities broaden the educational experience, allowing fellows to engage in related fields such as maternal-fetal medicine and cardiology. Research-oriented training forms the backbone of the fellowship, with nearly two-thirds of training time allocated to research pursuits. Opportunities abound at the Emory and Children's Pediatric Research Center, which features extensive research resources and collaborations.

Clinical Facilities

The clinical training is supported by three major Emory-affiliated hospitals in Atlanta, offering a variety of experiences:

• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston: A nearly 300-bed facility renowned for its advanced neonatal clinical services, housing a 45-bed Level IV NICU.
• Grady Memorial Hospital: The largest general hospital in Georgia with nearly 1000 beds, it serves as a critical teaching site and manages a Level III NICU and a significant volume of births.
• Emory University Hospital-Midtown: A leading community-based teaching facility with a 48-bed Level III NICU, which collaborates in managing high-risk maternal and neonatal transports.

These facilities provide extensive patient exposure and diverse clinical experiences crucial for fellows’ development.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a central role in the fellowship, facilitated by a structured program that includes seminars, journal clubs, and opportunities for collaborative projects with institutions across Atlanta, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The faculty and fellows also benefit from access to the Emory and Children’s Pediatric Research Center, which offers cutting-edge research initiatives.

Application Requirements and Competitiveness

Applicants must have completed an approved pediatric residency and meet the qualifications for certification by the American Board of Pediatrics. The program welcomes international medical graduates, provided they hold ECFMG certification. Notably, neither U.S. citizenship nor permanent residency is mandatory for application, making this program accessible to a diverse group of applicants. Additionally, minority physicians are encouraged to apply, fostering an inclusive environment.

The program’s competitiveness is underscored by its comprehensive training, leading facilities, and high-caliber faculty, making it an attractive opportunity for prospective fellows. Each year, a select group of applicants is chosen for the fellowship.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for eligible applicants, particularly focusing on those requiring J-1 or H-1B visa types. This facilitation helps to broaden the pool of candidates, contributing to a diverse and culturally rich training environment.