JFK Medical Center Program

The Neuroscience Institute at JFK University Medical Center offers a comprehensive Vascular Neurology Fellowship that prepares residents to become highly skilled and competent vascular neurologists. The program emphasizes a combination of rigorous clinical training and academic excellence, ensuring fellows are well-versed in the principles and practices of vascular neurology.

Program Structure

The Vascular Neurology Fellowship at JFK is accredited by the ACGME and typically accepts two fellows per year. The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded experience that encompasses various aspects of vascular neurology, with the intent of fostering independent clinical practice.

The fellowship curriculum includes extensive exposure to stroke management, cerebrovascular imaging, and both inpatient and outpatient care. Fellows participate actively in patient consultations, neurological examinations, and the management of acute stroke patients, in addition to honing their diagnostic skills.

Clinical Rotations

The fellowship offers diverse clinical rotations across various settings, including the primary stroke center, inpatient units, and specialized outpatient clinics. The training provides opportunities to learn advanced techniques in neuroimaging and utilize cutting-edge technology for diagnostic purposes.

In addition, fellows benefit from a multi-disciplinary approach, collaborating closely with neurocritical care specialists, neurosurgeons, and rehabilitation teams to create comprehensive care plans tailored to individual patient needs.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal component of the fellowship, with ample opportunities for fellows to engage in clinical and translational research projects. The program encourages participation in ongoing studies focusing on novel treatments for stroke and neurovascular disorders.

Fellows are supported in presenting their research findings at national and international conferences, enhancing their academic profile and networking within the neurological community.

Conferences and Educational Activities

The fellowship includes a variety of educational activities, including case discussions, didactic lectures, and journal clubs. These sessions are designed to enhance fellows' clinical skills and ensure they remain informed about the latest advancements in vascular neurology.

Grand rounds and visiting professorships featuring experts in the field are regularly scheduled, providing fellows the opportunity to learn from and interact with leaders in vascular neurology.

Application Requirements

Applicants to the Vascular Neurology Fellowship must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in neurology. The program has specific eligibility requirements which include a commitment to apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and active participation in the National Resident Matching Program.

Applicants should ideally have graduated from medical school no more than three years prior, have no gaps in clinical practice, and must provide evidence of US clinical experience within the past six months. It is mandatory to pass all USMLE exams on the first attempt, with a minimum Step 2 CK score requirement.

Visa Sponsorship

The program solely sponsors J1 visas for international medical graduates. Prospective fellows considering the program should ensure they meet the visa eligibility criteria stipulated by the program.

Competitiveness and Selection

The Vascular Neurology Fellowship is considered competitive, particularly given its affiliation with the JFK Neuroscience Institute, which has a prestigious reputation in the region. Applicants are encouraged to seek out diverse experiences during their residencies to strengthen their applications.

Although the program primarily favors US graduates, it remains open to considering qualified international medical graduates and those from osteopathic backgrounds.

Salaries and Benefits

The fellowship offers competitive salaries, which are adjusted annually. In addition to salary, the program provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and prescription insurance, as well as paid time off and a CME allowance.

These benefits contribute to the overall welfare of the fellows, allowing them to focus on their clinical training and academic development without financial anxiety.