McLaren Health Care/Oakland/MSU Program

The Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at McLaren Oakland aims to produce expert subspecialists capable of serving as independent consultants who can meet the health care needs of their communities. Originally established in 1994, this program transitioned successfully to ACGME accreditation in January 2021, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining high educational standards 1.

Training Sites

The primary training site is located in Pontiac, Michigan, providing fellows with extensive clinical exposure. Fellows engage in rotation at various hospitals including McLaren Oakland, Troy Beaumont, and other affiliated institutions, ensuring a comprehensive training experience across different health care environments 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum consists of rigorous clinical training complemented by a didactic program. This includes rotations across various specialty fields such as Anesthesia, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Nephrology, Pulmonary Medicine, and Sleep Medicine, among others, totaling a well-rounded experience 1. Fellows also have elective opportunities, allowing for a tailored educational experience based on individual career goals.

Rotations

Rotations are strategically designed to ensure comprehensive exposure within the field. Key rotations include:

• Anesthesia: 2 weeks at McLaren Oakland
• Intensive Care Unit: 3 months at McLaren Oakland
• Pulmonary Medicine: 4 months at Troy Beaumont
• Neuro Intensive Care Unit: 1 month at Henry Ford
• Surgical Intensive Care Unit: 1 month at Detroit Medical Center/Sinai-Grace
• Research: 1 month to foster academic activities
• Electives: Up to 3 months for personalized exploration

Each rotation incorporates clinical responsibilities and emphasizes hands-on learning under the guidance of experienced faculty 1.

Didactic Training

The program prioritizes a robust didactic component, including case-based presentations and various web-based learning modules covering critical topics relevant to Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine. Regular lectures by attending physicians and participation in specialized workshops, such as the Henry Ford Bronchoscopy Boot Camp, enhance fellow knowledge and practical skills 1.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are introduced to clinical research early in their training. They are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, which include developing their research initiatives under faculty mentorship, contributing to regional and national research contexts, and participating in quality improvement projects 1.

Application Process

To apply, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including graduation from an accredited College of Medicine and completion of an ACGME-approved Internal Medicine Residency Program. It is important to note that the fellowship currently does not sponsor visas 1. Applications must be submitted through the Electronic Resident Application Service (ERAS) and include supporting documents such as medical school transcripts and letters of recommendation. Selection is based on a combination of objective and subjective factors, and interviews are conducted on a rolling basis.

Competitiveness and Inclusivity

While the program is considered competitive, it seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds, accommodating applicants from both MD and DO pathways. Exceptional performance on licensing exams (COMLEX and USMLE) is critical, along with a demonstrated commitment to the field of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine 1.

Fellowship Benefits

Fellows receive a competitive salary and benefits package, including 20 paid weekdays off per academic year. The fellowship promotes wellness initiatives and support programs designed to enhance the personal and professional growth of its participants 1.