Lehigh Valley Health Network Program

The Vascular Neurology Fellowship at the Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is a comprehensive program designed to foster a robust foundation for lifelong learning in vascular neurology and the neurosciences. This fellowship is particularly tailored to coalesce rigorous practical experience with a flexible didactic curriculum, allowing fellows to learn in a manner that suits their individual educational styles and requirements 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum encompasses a breadth of rotations spanning six key areas, providing a well-rounded clinical experience in vascular neurology. Fellows will engage in rotations including Stroke Service, Night Float, Neurocritical Care, Neurosonology, Endovascular procedures, and Neurorehabilitation. Furthermore, fellows will have access to multiple elective options, such as Palliative Medicine and Neuroradiology, thus enhancing their learning possibilities 6.

Research Opportunities

Research is a pivotal aspect of the fellowship, with all fellows expected to engage in scholarly activity. This may include a variety of forms such as clinical studies, literature reviews, and qualitative research. The fellowship aims to create an environment that encourages the exploration and innovation needed to advance the field of vascular neurology 8.

Training Environment

LVHN is recognized as a Comprehensive Stroke Center and a high-volume referral hospital, which provides fellows with an opportunity to handle a diverse array of cases. The program emphasizes close collaboration with various other specialties within the health network, including internal medicine, neurosurgery, and interventional neuroradiology, thus enriching the fellowship experience 1.

Benefits

The fellowship's compensation and benefits are competitive and include 20 days of paid time off per academic year, two administrative days per month, coverage for AAN memberships, and inclusion in resident wellness events. Moreover, fellows receive annual funding for continuing medical education, allowing for participation in conferences and professional memberships, which supports their long-term professional development 4.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program is open to both international medical graduates and domestic applicants, with sponsorship available for H-1B and J-1 visa statuses. This makes the program accessible to a wide range of candidates, fostering a diverse cohort of fellows 10. While the program may be competitive, it is particularly accommodating to DO and IMG candidates, making it a favorable option for many medical graduates seeking fellowship opportunities in vascular neurology.

Application Process

Applicants must have completed an ACGME- or AOA-accredited adult neurology residency program to be eligible for the fellowship. The application process is facilitated through ERAS, with a deadline set for March 30. Interviews for prospective fellows are conducted from January through March 3.

Community Engagement

Fellows have the chance to contribute to community involvement efforts, including outreach to underrepresented youth in local schools and colleges, thereby enriching their professional experience beyond clinical practice and research 5.

Geographical Advantages

The Lehigh Valley itself is a rapidly growing region, located within close proximity to major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia and New York City. This geographical advantage, coupled with a lower cost of living, positions the Lehigh Valley as an appealing environment for fellows 1.