George Washington University School of Medicine Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
EpilepsyACGME Code:
1841018001The George Washington University Epilepsy Fellowship is a one-year ACGME accredited program that offers a comprehensive and structured training experience in the field of epilepsy. This program is designed to provide fellows with a robust foundation in both clinical practice and research opportunities, focusing on the diagnosis and management of epilepsy and associated disorders. The fellowship is available through the NRMP Match, ensuring a highly competitive selection process.
Fellows will gain clinical experience through multiple rotations, including both adult and pediatric epilepsy services. The primary training sites for the fellowship are GW University Hospital and Children’s National Medical Center. The program is committed to developing well-rounded, competent epileptologists who are equipped to handle a diverse range of clinical challenges. Training focuses on several key competencies, such as:
- Outpatient routine and ambulatory EEGs
- ICU EEGs and long-term monitoring (LTM)
- Presurgical evaluation including EEG monitoring
- Managing patients with medically refractory epilepsy
- Intracranial invasive EEG monitoring
- Utilization of neurostimulation and neuromodulation devices
In order to expand their education and academic profile, fellows are encouraged to engage in research and quality improvement initiatives, facilitated by faculty mentorship.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum within the epilepsy fellowship consists of three principal rotations:
- Adult Inpatient Epilepsy Service: This rotation includes work in the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) and intensive care units (ICU) where fellows manage acute epilepsy cases.
- Outpatient Rotation: Fellows will read routine and ambulatory EEGs and manage outpatient epilepsy patients while collaborating with assigned faculty.
- Pediatric Epilepsy Rotation: Conducted at Children’s National Medical Center, this rotation provides valuable experience in managing pediatric epilepsy cases.
Didactic Training
The program places a strong emphasis on didactic education through various formats:
- Epilepsy Board Review Course: A comprehensive 3-day course designed for board certification preparation, offered at no cost to fellows.
- Monthly Epilepsy Seminar Series: Features eminent speakers discussing cutting-edge topics in epilepsy.
- Lecture Series: Covering basic and advanced topics within EEG technology and clinical management.
- Journal Club: Bi-weekly discussions that promote critical analysis of recent literature in epilepsy research.
- Weekly Management Conferences: Joint conferences with Children’s National Medical Center focusing on case discussions and management strategies.
- EEG Teaching Sessions: Held bi-weekly, aimed at enhancing EEG interpretation skills.
Fellows are also encouraged to attend national conferences such as the American Epilepsy Society meeting to further enrich their educational exposure.
Application Requirements
For prospective fellows, the application process requires completion of an ACGME accredited neurology residency, along with board eligibility by the start of the fellowship. This program is competitive, aiming to attract applicants with strong clinical backgrounds and a passion for epilepsy management. Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
Visa Support
The program supports international medical graduates (IMGs) by providing visa sponsorship for J-1 visas. This accommodation ensures that eligible candidates from diverse backgrounds can pursue their fellowship at George Washington University.
Competitiveness
Overall, the fellowship program is highly competitive, seeking applicants who demonstrate excellence in their neurology residency programs. It offers a welcoming environment for both MD and DO graduates alike, fostering diversity among its fellows.
In addition, the epilepsy center at GWU is recognized as a level 4 epilepsy center by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers, signifying the highest standards of care and comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. This provides fellows with unparalleled access to advanced treatment modalities and research opportunities within the field of epilepsy.
Website
Director
Yamane MAKKE, MDProgram Director Epilepsy Fellowship Program Appointed Since February 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
8hrsFirst Year Salary:
$77,360First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
14XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
