Henry Ford Health/Henry Ford Hospital Program

Overview of the Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship Program

The Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital is a one-year ACGME accredited training program designed to impart extensive knowledge and practical skills in Clinical Neurophysiology. A unique feature of the program is the availability of an optional second year for individuals who wish to further specialize through related clinical or basic research. The fellowship accepts up to five fellows annually, thereby maintaining an intimate training environment conducive to individualized mentorship and hands-on experience.

Curriculum and Fellowship Structure

The fellowship curriculum is meticulously structured to cover various tracks, including Neuromuscular/EMG, Epilepsy/EEG, and a combined track. Each track encompasses a core didactic component alongside hands-on clinical training. For example, the Neuromuscular/EMG track focuses for nine months on neuromuscular and EMG diagnostics, while the Epilepsy/EEG track emphasizes EEG practices with significant involvement in the EEG Laboratory and the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU), which includes intensive training on continuous long-term video EEG recording.

Key Rotations

Fellows are expected to participate in rotations at various sites to gain a comprehensive understanding of clinical neurophysiology. This includes exposure to complex neuromuscular disorders, inpatient and outpatient EEG readings, and sleep studies. The EMG rotation involves practical experience administering nerve conduction studies, while the EMU experience includes both scalp and intracranial EEG interpretation, further bridging the gap between theory and clinical application.

Research Opportunities

The faculty's active involvement in clinical and translational research is a cornerstone of the fellowship program. Research projects may span areas such as antiepileptic drug trials, MEG studies, and Quality Improvement Projects. Each fellow is required to complete one research project throughout the fellowship period, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances academic and clinical knowledge.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Notably, the Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital is associated with the largest Comprehensive Epilepsy Center in Michigan, which boasts Level IV accreditation. The training facilities include an active EMG laboratory that processes a large volume of studies, thereby providing fellows with exposure to a wide array of neuromuscular disorders and critical care monitoring modalities.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

This fellowship is highly competitive; candidates are evaluated based on their academic achievements and the strength of their recommendations, which must include one letter from the Neurology Residency Program Director. Other required application materials include a letter of interest outlining the candidate's track of interest and a current CV. Both DO and IMG candidates are encouraged to apply, fostering a diverse cohort of fellows.

Visa Support and Types Sponsored

The program provides visa support by sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating international applicants in need of work authorization. This inclusivity extends opportunities to a wider range of applicants, creating a diverse learning environment that enhances the fellowship experience.

Core Competencies

Fellows will acquire a robust set of core competencies throughout their training, including patient care, medical knowledge, practice-based learning, communication skills, professionalism, and system-based practice. These competencies ensure that graduates are prepared to deliver high-quality neurodiagnostic and neurological care upon completion of the program.