MedStar Health Georgetown University Program
Location:
Washington, DCSpecialty:
Sleep medicine (multidisciplinary)ACGME Code:
5201014135The MedStar Health—Georgetown University Hospital Fellowship Program in Sleep Medicine is a one-year multidisciplinary program designed to cultivate diagnostic and clinical skills in sleep medicine. This program is noted for its robust structure, comprised of extensive clinical, didactic, and research components, delivering candidates a well-rounded educational experience in the intricacies of sleep disorders.
The fellowship emphasizes a collaborative approach, incorporating faculty from various specialties including Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Otolaryngology, and Dental Surgery. The varied backgrounds of faculty enhance the learning environment and create opportunities for fellows to engage with a broad array of sleep disorders, including but not limited to obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, and circadian rhythm disorders 1.
Curriculum
Fellows will participate in a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential aspects of sleep medicine. They will engage in evaluating and managing patients with sleep disorders through hands-on experience with polysomnography and multiple sleep latency testing, as well as practical training in portable sleep monitoring and PAP therapy titration. The curriculum aims to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to interpret complex sleep studies and design individualized treatment plans 1.
Rotations
The rotation structure is instrumental to the fellowship, as fellows will engage in diverse clinical settings. Major rotations include adult sleep medicine clinics, pediatric sleep clinics, sleep laboratories, ENT/dental clinics, neurology, and psychiatry. These rotations facilitate exposure to a variety of patient populations and clinical scenarios, ensuring that fellows develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities within sleep medicine.
Daily half-day clinics for adult sleep medicine provide valuable clinical exposure, where fellows examine patients presenting with various sleep disorders. These clinics are integral in honing clinical assessment and decision-making skills under the supervision of experienced faculty. The sleep laboratory rotation allows fellows to work alongside attending physicians to learn about and interpret polysomnograms, thereby reinforcing the theoretical training received during didactic sessions 1.
Research Opportunities
Research plays a significant role within the program, with opportunities for fellows to contribute to ongoing sleep medicine studies. Faculty research interests cover critical areas, including biomarkers of oxidative stress in obstructive sleep apnea and the prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing in various patient populations. Active engagement in research initiatives can provide fellows with valuable insights into the evolving field of sleep medicine and enhance their academic profiles 1.
Application Information
Applicants considering the program must meet specific eligibility criteria, which typically includes recent completion of an ACGME-accredited residency program. The fellowship is relatively competitive, attracting a diverse cohort of candidates, including both MD and DO graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). It is advisable for applicants to ensure they meet the program's requirements and possess strong clinical backgrounds to enhance their candidacy.
The program is supportive of fellows who may require visa sponsorship and is capable of facilitating applications for J-1 visas for eligible international candidates 1.
Unique Aspects
The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Sleep Disorders Center stands out as a leading academic site in Washington, D.C., and is accredited by the American Sleep Disorders Association. Its longstanding history and commitment to excellence have positioned it as a referral center for complex sleep cases, ensuring that fellows gain exposure to a wide variety of clinical situations and patient needs 1.
This fellowship is designed to provide a rigorous and enriching training experience that prepares fellows for future roles as leaders in the field of sleep medicine, equipped with the necessary knowledge, clinical acumen, and research capabilities.
Website
Director
Tunay Kuru, MD, MHSAAssociate Professor of Medicine Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
-First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
6.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Washington, DC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Washington, DC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Washington, DC has a mix of neighborhoods with varying levels of safety. While some areas are considered safe, others may have higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before choosing where to live.
- Fun Activities: Washington, DC is rich in culture and history. Residents can enjoy visiting museums, exploring national monuments, attending events on the National Mall, and trying different cuisines in the city's diverse restaurants.
- Climate: Washington, DC experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them popular seasons for outdoor activities.
- Races and Population: Washington, DC is a diverse city with a significant African American population. Residents can find communities representing various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
- Education: Washington, DC is home to several universities and colleges, providing opportunities for further education and research. Residents can access a range of educational resources and cultural institutions.
- Cost of Living: Washington, DC has a relatively high cost of living, especially in terms of housing. Rent and property prices can be expensive, but residents may find varying costs in different neighborhoods.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Baltimore is approximately 45 miles away from Washington, DC, while Philadelphia is around 140 miles away. These cities offer their own unique attractions, nightlife, and cultural experiences.
- Pros and Cons: Pros of living in Washington, DC include access to national landmarks, cultural events, and diverse communities. However, cons may include the higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and potential safety concerns in certain areas.
Interview Questions
