Indiana University School of Medicine Program

Medical Toxicology is a crucial subspecialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of poisoning and related health impacts stemming from medications, biological agents, and environmental or occupational toxins. Medical toxicologists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to patients exposed to substances that pose health threats.

Patient Care

The Department of Emergency Medicine’s Division of Medical Toxicology is deeply engaged in the prevention and treatment of both acute and chronic poisoning cases. Faculty members and learners are actively involved in an inpatient clinical toxicology consult service at prominent hospitals including IU Health Methodist Hospital, IU Health University Hospital, and Riley Hospital for Children. These institutions serve as regional and statewide tertiary referral centers, ensuring that patients receive specialized medical attention.

This division also addresses cases involving occupational and environmental poisoning through an outpatient neurotoxicology clinic. Furthermore, it oversees the medical operations of the Indiana Poison Center, which is the sole regional poison center in Indiana, fulfilling a vital role for over seven million residents.

Training Programs

Faculty physicians within the division deliver education to medical students and residents via a robust clinical rotation. They also conduct advanced training for physicians through a fellowship program in medical toxicology.

Fellowship Training

The Medical Toxicology Fellowship is a two-year program accredited by ACGME, located in Indianapolis. This fellowship offers fellows opportunities for hands-on management of patients affected by poisoning, ensuring they gain practical experience in the field.

Faculty

The faculty within the Division of Medical Toxicology comprises experienced professionals, including:

• Robert S. Avera, MD - Assistant Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine
• Blake A. Froberg, MD - Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics
• R. Brent Furbee, MD - Professor Emeritus of Clinical Emergency Medicine
• Louise W. Kao, MD - Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine
• Kristine A. Nañagas, MD - Associate Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine
• Laura M. Tormoehlen, MD - Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology
• Mary E. Wermuth, MD - Assistant Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, which can facilitate opportunities for those seeking to enroll in the fellowship. Types of visas that are typically supported include J-1 and H-1B visas, empowering international fellows to engage in specialized training while adhering to immigration regulations.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission to the Medical Toxicology Fellowship is competitive. Candidates are generally expected to possess a solid background in emergency medicine or a related specialty. Additionally, applicants must meet specific special application requirements such as year of graduation from medical school and should not have more than one failed result on standardized exams like the STEP exams, underscoring the program's commitment to maintaining high standards.