Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center Program

The Allergy and Immunology Fellowship at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a two-year, ACGME-accredited program that admits two fellows annually. The program focuses on cultivating a nurturing, respectful environment that celebrates diversity and provides equal opportunity for all trainees.

The fellowship accepts candidates trained in medicine, pediatrics, or medicine/pediatrics, aimed at developing fellows capable of managing both adult and pediatric patients upon graduation. The program consists of 11 faculty members, including four full-time faculty in the Department of Medicine and an additional four full-time and three part-time faculty in the Department of Pediatrics. With the support of a program coordinator and an administrative secretary, the fellowship facilitates numerous academic and social activities to enhance the educational experience.

Program Structure

The fellowship adheres to ACGME guidelines, allocating 25 percent of time to academic responsibilities, 25 percent to dedicated research, and 50 percent to direct patient care during the two-year training period. The program covers a comprehensive range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies, eosinophilic disorders, drug allergies, mast cell disorders, and immunodeficiencies, among others.

During the training, fellows will gain proficiency in various clinical procedures, including skin testing, immunotherapy, and patient management strategies. The exposure also encompasses outpatient settings, where fellows will attend medicine and pediatric clinics, handling referrals from an extensive network of specialists.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Allergy and Immunology Fellowship at Penn State is to cultivate high-quality, evidence-based care through dedicated training and research endeavors. The program emphasizes the importance of engaging fellows in the educational process of medical students and residents, thereby enhancing the overall academic environment. Furthermore, fellows are encouraged to partake in quality improvement projects and significant research activities, fostering a spirit of innovation.

Application Process

Candidates must apply through ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service), with interviews typically held virtually on Wednesdays from late August to mid-October. The program seeks individuals who display enthusiasm, respectfulness, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The fellowship is accessible to both DO graduates and IMG candidates, making it a friendly choice for diverse applicants.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is considered competitive, particularly due to its well-structured curriculum and esteemed faculty. Applicants should be aware of specific requirements such as the year of graduation and the number of failed STEP exams, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria to maximize their chances for acceptance.

Training Environment

The fellowship offers a balanced training approach, with fellows dedicating significantly equal time to outpatient adult and pediatric clinics. Here, they work alongside attending physicians, fellows, and nursing staff, engaging directly in patient care and decision-making processes. The program is designed to enable fellows to see approximately a 50-50 mix of adult and pediatric patients, thereby broadening their clinical experience.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship. Throughout their training, fellows are expected to develop and complete a research project during their second year, with mentorship provided to facilitate this scholarly work. Participation in various conferences is encouraged, allowing fellows to present abstracts and engage in discussions about cutting-edge developments in allergy and immunology. With expectations to publish at least one manuscript before graduation, fellows often leave the program with multiple scholarly publications to their credit.

Diversity and Wellness Initiatives

Promoting diversity and wellness among fellows is a foundational element of the program's culture. The fellowship actively supports policies that ensure respect for all individuals, reflecting a commitment to equity in healthcare training. For wellness, various institutional resources are available to assist fellows in maintaining their emotional and physical health throughout their training.

Visa Requirements

The program offers visa sponsorship options to qualified candidates, facilitating international fellows' integration into the training environment. The specific types of visas provided can support eligible applicants in their pursuit of advanced training in allergy and immunology.