Louisiana State University (Shreveport) Program
Location:
Shreveport, LASpecialty:
Sleep medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5202118086The Sleep Medicine Fellowship at LSU Health Shreveport is an ACGME-accredited one-year program dedicated to imparting high-quality training in all aspects of sleep medicine. This fellowship aims to enhance the treatment of sleep disorders through a multifaceted educational approach, emphasizing patient-centered care across various clinical settings such as clinics, sleep labs, and hospitals. With a remarkable 100% board pass rate over the past five years, the program's emphasis on competency and comprehensive training prepares fellows to manage a wide array of sleep-related disorders in both adult and pediatric populations 1.
Training Curriculum
The training curriculum for fellows is highly structured and includes extensive hands-on clinical experience alongside rigorous didactic learning. Sleep fellows work closely with attending physicians across a range of specialties, operating within a collegial and supportive academic environment. Fellows are immersed in numerous diagnostic and therapeutic activities, including polysomnography, home sleep testing, and actigraphy. They are also involved in the follow-up care of patients utilizing CPAP therapy for sleep-disordered breathing, helping to ensure continuity and effectiveness of care 2.
This fellowship includes a variety of educational components, such as weekly grand rounds, journal clubs, and active participation in research clubs. The program focuses on a multidisciplinary understanding of sleep medicine, as it integrates knowledge about behavioral psychology, psychiatry, and the cross-section of medical disorders and sleep disturbances 2.
Training Sites
The primary training sites for the fellowship include the Sleep Disorders Center at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport and the Sleep Lab at Overton Brooks VA Medical Center. At these locations, fellows have access to advanced diagnostic resources, including a state-of-the-art digital polysomnography system. Moreover, the fellowship puts a special emphasis on the care of military veterans, integrating veterans' unique health needs into sleep medicine practices 2.
Research Opportunities
Research is an integral component of the fellowship experience. Fellows engage in case reports, quality improvement projects, and various research initiatives related to sleep disorders. One prominent project includes the Sleep for Stroke Management and Recovery Trial (Sleep SMART), which assesses the impact of treating obstructive sleep apnea in stroke patients. This invitation to participate in cutting-edge research not only enhances fellows' educational experiences but also contributes to the evidence base for sleep medicine 2.
Application Process and Eligibility
Eligible applicants for the Sleep Medicine Fellowship must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in one of several medical specialties, including internal medicine, neurology, pediatrics, family medicine, otolaryngology, psychiatry, or anesthesiology. However, it is essential to note that the program currently does not accept candidates on H1B visa status. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in sleep medicine and possess the ability to engage collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team 2.
Competitiveness and Unique Aspects
The Sleep Medicine Fellowship at LSU Health Shreveport is regarded as a highly competitive program, attracting academically strong candidates, including both graduates from MD and DO programs as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). The program recognizes the importance of fostering an inclusive application process and is open to diverse candidates who exhibit a genuine passion for improving sleep health 2.
Visa Sponsorship
The program currently sponsors J-1 visas for international graduates. Unfortunately, H1B visa sponsorship is not available, which is a crucial consideration for IMG applicants 2.
Conclusion
Through a combination of clinical excellence, comprehensive training, and a commitment to advancing the field of sleep medicine, LSU Health Shreveport's Sleep Medicine Fellowship offers a unique and fulfilling opportunity for physicians eager to specialize in this vital area of healthcare 1.
Website
Director
Oleg Y Chernyshev, MD, PhDProgram Director Appointed Since April 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$64,763First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Shreveport, LA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Shreveport, LA
- Crime Rate and Safety: Shreveport has a moderate crime rate compared to national averages. While some neighborhoods may be safer than others, it's important to take necessary precautions.
- Fun Activities: Shreveport offers a variety of entertainment options, including casinos, music festivals, museums, and outdoor activities along the Red River.
- Climate: Shreveport has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for high humidity levels during the summer months.
- Races and Population: Shreveport is a diverse city with a mix of different racial and ethnic groups, creating a vibrant cultural scene.
- Education: Shreveport is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Shreveport is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Shreveport is approximately a 3-hour drive away from Dallas, Texas. Dallas offers a wide range of amenities and cultural attractions that residents can enjoy on weekends or for day trips.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural scene, proximity to larger cities.
- Cons: Moderate crime rate, high humidity in summer.
Interview Questions
