Houston Methodist Hospital (Medical Center) Program

The Houston Methodist Hospital offers a Neuromuscular Medicine fellowship program, which is designed to provide comprehensive training in the diagnosis and management of a wide array of neuromuscular disorders. This program aims to foster a strong clinical foundation, coupled with research opportunities, allowing fellows to gain expertise in the latest therapies and symptom management strategies.

With a focus on multidisciplinary care, the program integrates diverse clinical services, including comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic interventions. The Neuromuscular Clinic is an integral part of this program, dedicated to treating conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), muscular dystrophies, myasthenia gravis, and peripheral neuropathies.

Clinical Services

The Neuromuscular Medicine fellowship at Houston Methodist enables fellows to participate in clinical services at the Neuromuscular Clinic. Here, they will engage in evaluating patients through various procedures, including electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, and biopsies for diagnostic purposes. The clinic also emphasizes patient involvement in clinical trials, further supporting research in neuromuscular diseases.

The specialized services include: muscle and nerve biopsies, genetic testing, and neuromuscular ultrasound—all aimed at enhancing diagnostic accuracy and providing tailored patient care 1.

Training and Rotations

The fellowship program provides structured rotations that encompass outpatient and inpatient care, enabling fellows to develop clinical competence across different settings. The multidisciplinary approach allows for collaboration with specialists in neurology, pathology, and rehabilitation medicine, enriching fellows' training experiences. Fellows will also be privy to case discussions and seminars that encompass a range of neuromuscular disorders and treatment methodologies.

Additionally, a unique aspect of the program is its emphasis on electrodiagnostic medicine training, preparing fellows to perform and interpret complex EMG and nerve conduction studies 2.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal component of the fellowship program, with fellow participation encouraged in ongoing clinical trials and studies focused on advancing the understanding and treatment of neuromuscular disorders. The program connects fellows with leading research initiatives in neuromuscular medicine, fostering academic collaboration and the potential for significant contributions to the field. Opportunities for presenting research findings at national conferences are also available, promoting academic growth 3.

Application and Selection Process

Prospective applicants are required to have completed an accredited residency in neurology, and submit all necessary documentation, which typically includes letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of USMLE performance. The program is competitive, and while it welcomes both U.S. and international medical graduates, strong academic performance, relevant clinical experience, and research involvement are key selection criteria. There may also be maximum thresholds for failed STEP attempts, typically outlined in the application guidelines 4.

Furthermore, the fellowship program offers visa support for international medical graduates. The program may sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, facilitating opportunities for those who require assistance in this regard 5.

Unique Aspects

Houston Methodist Hospital’s Neuromuscular Medicine fellowship stands out for its inclusion of specialized clinics such as the ALS Clinic and the Myotonic Dystrophy Clinic. These clinics provide fellow trainees with experience in managing complex cases and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. The program’s location within the Texas Medical Center offers unique access to an extensive patient population and advanced medical facilities, enriching the clinical training experience further 6.