Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

The Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) offers a specialized Neurocritical Care Fellowship aimed at training future intensivists within the Fleming Neuroscience Institute. This fellowship program provides a comprehensive education and training experience in a dynamic and diverse medical environment.

The Neurocritical Care Fellowship is structured over two years, accepting two fellows annually. It is critical to note that applicants must have completed an ACGME- or AOA-accredited neurology residency program and passed the USMLE or COMLEX Steps I, II, and III. The program is well-versed in accommodating international medical graduates (IMGs), offering both J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship opportunities to qualified candidates 1.

Program Structure and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is meticulously designed to encompass a variety of rotations. It includes core experiences in the dedicated neuroscience intensive care unit (ICU), where fellows will engage in neurocritical care directly. Additionally, fellows will participate in a neurocritical care consultation service, including telestroke evaluations, and the stroke service. The training extends to other intensive care settings, such as the medical ICU, surgical ICU, neurotrauma ICU, and cardiac ICU, ensuring a well-rounded education. Fellows are also provided elective rotations to explore other interests within the field of neurology and critical care, alongside a month dedicated specifically to airway management 2.

Clinical Environment

The Lehigh Valley serves a wide geographical area, providing access to a diverse patient population. LVHN is a prominent Level I Trauma Center, notably recognized for its advanced capabilities in neurosurgical procedures, as well as cerebrovascular interventions 3. The neuroscience ICU consists of 14 beds with the capacity to expand as required, offering state-of-the-art equipment, including point-of-care ultrasound, transcranial Doppler machines, and advanced hemodynamic monitoring systems. This high-volume neurocritical care setting allows for extensive exposure to various neurological conditions, including ischemic strokes, hemorrhagic strokes, and status epilepticus 4.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship boasts a dedicated team of experienced faculty members, including board-certified neurointensivists who play a direct role in the education and mentoring of fellows. The program is run by professionals with fellowship training in neurocritical care, who are committed to providing comprehensive educational experiences 5. Fellow support is further enhanced by a skilled group of advanced practitioners and specialized nursing staff trained specifically in neurology critical care.

Benefits and Support

Fellows in the Neurocritical Care Fellowship receive significant benefits, which include paid Emergency Neurological Life Support certification and four weeks of vacation. Furthermore, fellows are compensated in line with graduate medical education salary standards, which offers additional financial stability 6. The program prioritizes the well-being and work-life balance of its fellows.

Application Process

The application process for the fellowship is quite structured. Interested candidates must apply via the SF Match. The deadline for application submission is February 1, with interviews conducted in March. While prior clinical or research experience in the United States is not a strict requirement, it can strengthen an application significantly 7.

Location and Community

Situated approximately 60 miles north of Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley is one of Pennsylvania's most rapidly growing regions. It offers a favorable business environment and a considerably lower cost of living compared to neighboring metropolitan areas, making it an attractive place for fellows to live and train 8.