Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Arizona) Program

The one-year Sleep Medicine Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, offers comprehensive training designed for professionals aiming to excel in the management of sleep disorders. This fellowship is structured to equip fellows with the skills necessary to run a sleep disorders center, engage in academic pursuits, and provide specialized care for a diverse array of sleep disorders.

The program emphasizes a collaborative training approach with Phoenix Children's Hospital, enhancing pediatric sleep disorder management competencies. Additionally, fellows gain exposure to various specialties, including otorhinolaryngology and neurological movement disorders.

Fellows also have the unique opportunity to rotate at other Mayo Clinic sites, such as Rochester, Minnesota, and Jacksonville, Florida, to gain further specialization in areas like sleep dentistry. This expansive training allows for a well-rounded fellowship experience that can significantly enhance a fellow's clinical skills and knowledge base.

Curriculum Outline

The training program consists of 12 blocks of clinical training, each lasting four to five weeks. Fellows will participate in a weekly continuity clinic complemented by ongoing didactics and research opportunities. Key areas of focus include:

• Sleep disordered breathing
• Insomnia
• Restless leg syndrome
• Narcolepsy
• Circadian rhythm disorders
• Parasomnias

With a favorable faculty-to-trainee ratio of 9:1, fellows are provided with formal career mentorship and undergo semi-annual evaluations to monitor their progress and goals.1

Rotational Experience

Fellowships are structured around various rotations, which include:

• Adult Sleep Center: Comprehensive evaluation and treatment of adult sleep and circadian disorders.
• Pediatric Sleep Center: Management of sleep disorders specifically in pediatric patients.
• Adult Sleep Scoring: Proficiency in scoring sleep stages and identifying dysregulation through polysomnography.
• Otorhinolaryngology: Understanding surgical options for treating sleep apnea and related disorders through direct collaboration with otorhinolaryngology specialists.
• Neurology Movement Disorders: Evaluation of patients suffering from various movement disorders.
• Electives: Options to pursue additional interests in sleep dentistry, behavior therapy, and inpatient sleep services.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, with dedicated and protected time allocated—specifically, two weeks for a research rotation. Each fellow will be paired with a research mentor and is encouraged to engage in independent projects and clinical trials. Fellows are required to participate in scholarly activities, including quality improvement projects and case presentations, providing opportunities for increased visibility within the research community.2

Mentorship and Faculty

The program's faculty includes highly respected leaders in sleep medicine, representing diverse specialties such as pulmonary medicine, neurology, and psychiatry. Their commitment to education is evidenced by the mentorship provided to fellows, ensuring a supportive learning environment while fostering professional growth. Regular interactions enrich the fellows' learning experience, providing insights from experts in various fields.3

Application Process

One fellowship position is available each year, and the application process is competitive. Candidates must have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in one of several qualifying specialties, such as internal medicine or pediatrics. The application materials must be submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) by August 1 of the year prior to the start date. Personal interviews are conducted with invited applicants between September and October each year, and appointments are made through the Sleep Medicine Match program.4

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is responsive to international applicants and provides appropriate visa support. They typically sponsor J-1 visas, allowing international medical graduates to pursue their training effectively. The fellowship is considered competitive, particularly appealing to those holding DO degrees or International Medical Graduates (IMGs) due to its robust training capabilities and interprofessional collaboration opportunities.

Training Environment

Fellows benefit from a supportive environment that promotes physical and mental well-being, ensuring a balanced work-life dynamic. The Mayo Clinic is recognized for its commitment to education, with a variety of conferences, including case reviews and journal clubs, enriching the fellows’ educational experience throughout their training.