Johns Hopkins University Program

Johns Hopkins Neurocritical Care Fellowship Overview

The Neurocritical Care Fellowship at Johns Hopkins University is a highly reputable two-year program designed to train individuals in the rapidly evolving field of neurocritical care. This fellowship aims to develop clinician-scientists in neurocritical care medicine, building upon its history as one of the first programs established in the 1980s. A notable feature of this program is its strong focus on rigorous research, clinical education, and mentorship, preparing fellows for leadership roles in various medical institutions across the country.

Program Features

The fellowship is accredited by both the ACGME and the United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties (UCNS), confirming its educational standard and commitment to fostering advanced training in neurocritical care.

Fellows engage predominantly in clinical work, with a structured format that includes 52 weeks of clinical rotations complemented by dedicated academic time. The unique multidisciplinary environment brings together expertise from the departments of neurosurgery, neurology, anesthesiology, and critical care medicine, creating a comprehensive training experience focused on acute neurological conditions.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To apply for this competitive fellowship, candidates must currently hold a residency position or be board-eligible recent graduates from an ACGME-accredited program within relevant specialties such as neurology, neurosurgery, internal medicine, surgery, emergency medicine, or anesthesiology/critical care medicine. Applications are processed through SF Match.

Fellows from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and International Medical Graduates (IMGs), are encouraged to apply, as the program displays a commitment to inclusivity and representation in medicine.

Clinical Training and Rotations

During the first year, fellows focus on developing clinical skills, providing direct patient care, supervising medical students, and supporting nursing staff. In their second year, additional responsibilities include:

• Leading the Neurocritical Care Unit (NCCU) team in collaboration with attending physicians.
• Formally teaching neurophysiology and critical care concepts to junior residents and fellows.
• Engaging in research activities within the critical care setting.

Training is grounded in rotations primarily at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, alongside critical experiences at the Bayview NCCU. Rotational blocks are structured for optimal clinical immersion and continuity of care, ensuring both patient management and academic productivity.

Research Opportunities

Research is paramount in the fellowship, with a mandatory research component requiring fellows to undertake 12 months dedicated to clinical, translational, or laboratory-based projects. The program features extensive resources, including access to large trial datasets and collaborative projects with faculty from various departments. The neurocritical care division is notable for its contributions to NIH-funded clinical trials, presenting considerable opportunities for mentorship and involvement in groundbreaking research.

Fellows are expected to present their research at national conferences and collaborate on publications throughout their training, fostering academic and professional growth.

Educational Program Structure

The educational framework is robust, encompassing a variety of didactic training avenues, including:

• Summer Bootcamp Lecture Series for incoming fellows covering crucial topics in neurocritical care.
• Weekly lectures on advanced neurocritical care and general critical care topics.
• Board Review Series and simulation-based training in essential procedures.

Simulation training opportunities allow fellows to practice critical procedures, enhancing their technical abilities and procedural confidence in a controlled environment.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The Johns Hopkins Neurocritical Care Fellowship program offers visa sponsorship, providing support for international fellows. The fellowship typically sponsors J-1 visas, which facilitate the participation of qualified non-U.S. citizens seeking advanced training in the United States.

Living in Baltimore

Baltimore, known for its vibrant culture, historic charm, and urban vitality, offers a rich experience for fellows outside of their rigorous clinical and academic training. The city's unique attractions, from the Inner Harbor to numerous festivals and outdoor activities, provide opportunities for recreation and work-life balance.