McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Program

The McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University offers a comprehensive Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship through the Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Fellows trained in this program are well-prepared for a career specializing in clinical neurophysiology, including a focus on EEG and epilepsy management.

Fellows accepted into the Clinical Neurophysiology training program will receive substantial hands-on experience in various crucial aspects of neurophysiology. The program includes training in routine EEG reading, continuous EEG monitoring, and epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) evaluations. Additionally, the fellowship covers intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG), extraoperative epilepsy surgical evaluations (such as stereo EEG and subdural grid recordings), and Neurophysiologic Intraoperative Monitoring (NIOM). This rigorous training is essential for developing the competencies needed for independent practice.

Curriculum

The curriculum emphasizes a well-rounded education with a minimum of nine months dedicated to EEG training along with additional months focusing specifically on intraoperative monitoring techniques. The program also features a continuity outpatient clinic for epilepsy, enriching the fellow's clinical experience during the fellowship duration. CNP fellows are eligible to take the American Board of Clinical Neurophysiology (ABCN) and Subspecialty of Clinical Neurophysiology (ABPN) board examinations upon completion of their training.

Clinical Experience

Training primarily occurs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH), where fellows work under seasoned professionals in a cutting-edge clinical environment. The fellowship additionally facilitates participation in research endeavors related to clinical neurophysiology and epilepsy, providing ample opportunities for fellows to engage in NIH-funded projects. This research component equips fellows with the skills to complete at least one independent research project and present findings at national conferences.

Unique Features of the Program

The program stands out for its dedication to diversity and inclusion, welcome to eager, motivated fellows from varied backgrounds, encouraging them to achieve their personal and professional aspirations. The department actively promotes a culture emphasizing health equity and diversity through initiatives such as the Neurosciences Health, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (HEDI) Committee, which enhances an inclusive environment conducive to comprehensive learning.

Research Opportunities

The Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship offers a robust research framework through the availability of full-time clinical research associates aiding fellows in regulatory processes, data collection, and analysis. This structure not only supports fellows in their research endeavors but also emphasizes a commitment to scholarly activity in clinical neurophysiology.

Application and Eligibility

To apply for the fellowship, candidates are required to complete an ACGME-accredited residency in neurology or child neurology. The program follows a selection process based on the readiness and qualifications of the applicants. Typical application requirements include a curriculum vitae, personal statement, three recommendation letters, documentation of current medical licensure, and USMLE scores. The program maintains a commitment to non-discrimination based on race, sex, age, or any other personal characteristics.

The fellowship is considered competitive, aiming to select individuals who demonstrate exemplary academic credentials and personal qualities that align with the program's mission of training skilled clinical neurophysiologists.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers sponsorship for J1 visas for foreign medical graduates, while H1B visas may be considered for exceptional applicants. This feature makes the fellowship more accessible for international graduates wishing to gain training in the US.

Fellows can anticipate well-rounded training necessary for independent practice upon completion of the program, as well as involvement in various clinical and research activities tailored to developing proficiency in clinical neurophysiology.