SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Program

The Allergy and Immunology Fellowship Program at Saint Louis University is a single, fully integrated program designed for individuals pursuing subspecialty training in allergy, asthma, and immunology across all age groups. This program is well-regarded for its comprehensive clinical exposure to a wide range of allergic and immunologic disorders while providing a solid foundation in both clinical and translational research.

Program Overview

Participation in the fellowship requires prior completion of medical school and a residency in internal medicine, pediatrics, or a combined internal medicine-pediatrics program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Candidates must be board eligible or board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and/or the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). This fellowship is jointly administered by the Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, allowing fellows to gain robust training in both adult and pediatric cases, ensuring a well-balanced clinical practice experience.

Successful completion of the program enables fellows to sit for certification by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. The program operates under a supportive academic environment that emphasizes research, with faculty members who are nationally recognized in their fields, significantly contributing to clinical practice guidelines on immunologic disorders.

Training Structure

The program spans two years, during which fellows engage in structured one-month rotations across various clinical environments. Each fellow rotates through four months each of adult and pediatric clinical experience at key sites, including SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Rotations are designed to maximize exposure while allowing for periods dedicated to research, with an absence of night call, promoting a suitable work-life balance.

The clinical experience is complemented by regular specialty conferences and a robust curriculum designed to help fellows maintain active engagement with the latest developments in allergy and immunology.

Moreover, fellows experience a balanced case mix—approximately 45% adults and 55% children—covering a wide variety of conditions including asthma, food allergies, and immune deficiency disorders, which ensures exposure to above-average patient volumes compared to other programs nationally.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to participate in research and scholarly activities, often focusing on topics such as allergic aspergillosis, the intersection of asthma and sinusitis, and mechanisms of drug allergies. The program faculty is involved in various clinical trials associated with treatment advancements in allergic and immunologic disorders, offering fellows opportunities to engage in significant research projects that can shape their future careers.

Educational Environment and Faculty

The fellowship’s educational environment is supported by expert faculty who have made significant contributions to the field, not only in patient care but also in research and educational initiatives on both national and international scales. Faculty often hold leadership roles in professional organizations and are frequently involved in updating treatment guidelines at the highest levels.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The application process for the fellowship generally requires submission via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). The program participates in the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), making it competitive yet open to a diverse range of qualified applicants including international medical graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic medical graduates (DO).

Given the program's comprehensive training and the quality of education and mentoring provided, applicants are advised to have strong academic credentials and relevant clinical experience.

Visa Support

The program is supportive of international applicants, providing visa sponsorship for the H-1B visa type. This enables qualified international applicants to participate in this rigorous training environment, enhancing the program's diversity and enriching the educational experience.

Benefits and Support

Fellows receive a competitive salary and benefits package, which includes comprehensive health and dental insurance, vacation time, sick leave, and other perks that support well-being and professional development. Additionally, fellows have access to funding for travel and conference attendance, which is an essential component for fostering academic growth.