Geisinger Health System (Danville) Program

The Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at Geisinger College in Danville prepares medical professionals to become proficient specialists in the ever-evolving fields of pulmonary and critical care medicine. This fellowship offers a prominent educational experience characterized by a high-volume, diverse practice environment. The fellowship is designed for individuals who aspire to excel in either academic or community-based medical settings. The extensive reputation of the program is evidenced by the swift recruitment of its fellows immediately upon graduation.

Training Environment

Geisinger’s program benefits from a rich clinical backdrop provided by its various assets, including a Level I trauma center, a stroke center, and specialized clinics focusing on pulmonary hypertension and cystic fibrosis. The fellowship culture emphasizes collaboration among a skilled faculty and a diverse patient cohort, which enriches the learning experience for fellows. Each fellow will gain experience in advanced procedures, as Geisinger performs approximately 700 to 800 bronchoscopies annually and has comprehensive care capabilities through its eICU platform that allows coverage of multiple facilities.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is meticulously structured to ensure that fellows experience comprehensive training in pulmonary and critical care. The fellowship spans three years and includes:

• Year 1: Training in the adult multidisciplinary intensive care unit, pulmonary consultation services, ambulatory care rotations, sleep clinic rotations, research rotations, bronchoscopy training, and continuity clinic responsibilities.
• Year 2: Continued immersion in the adult multidisciplinary intensive care unit, pulmonary consultation services, ambulatory clinic rotation, research rotations, and ongoing continuity clinics.
• Year 3: Emphasis on the adult multidisciplinary intensive care unit, further ambulatory clinic rotations, sleep clinic rotations, research participation, and continuity clinics.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship provides a collegial and supportive environment led by distinguished faculty members who are dedicated to education and mentorship. Trainees can expect a collaborative training atmosphere where they are treated as valued colleagues, positioning them for successful careers post-fellowship.1

Application Process and Visa Support

Geisinger’s Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellowship participates in the ERAS application system for National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) candidates. The fellowship is open to applicants holding J1 and H1B visas, making it accessible for both domestic and international medical graduates. Candidates are recommended to submit applications by July 31, and interviews occur by invitation, allowing prospective fellows to gain personal insights into the program.

Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements

The Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellowship is classified as highly competitive, aiming to attract the best candidates in the field. International medical graduates are encouraged to apply, and the program is noted for being inclusive to DO graduates, reflecting its commitment to diversity within its ranks. While specific cutoffs for failed Step exams or years of graduation are not detailed, applicants should be mindful that strong academic records and clinical experience are pivotal in standing out during the selection process.

Location and Lifestyle

Located in Danville, Pennsylvania, the program provides fellows with a unique training opportunity amidst a backdrop of natural beauty. The local area offers a low cost of living and minimal traffic, allowing robust outdoor recreational activities. Danville’s proximity to major urban centers such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C. allows for accessible weekend excursions, enhancing the overall fellowship experience.