Tower Health Program

The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship at Tower Health offers an extensive clinical experience tailored to prepare trainees for successful careers in academic pediatric pulmonology. The program is equipped with a team of four full-time board-certified pediatric pulmonologists, two nurse practitioners, and several pediatric allergists, creating a rich collaborative environment for learning and patient care 1.

The fellowship includes a variety of specialized facilities, including a fully accredited Cystic Fibrosis Center, which plays a key role in the Therapeutic Development Network and is supported by dedicated nursing, nutrition, and social work staff 1. Moreover, there is an accredited Sleep Center featuring six pediatric beds, an active inpatient and outpatient asthma team, and a technology-dependent program focused on advanced pediatric care.

One of the standout features of the program is its multidisciplinary Sickle Cell Disease and Pulmonary Hypertension Working Group, which engages in multiple active research studies. The program also boasts a pulmonary function laboratory capable of conducting detailed assessments, including spirometry, complete lung volumes, exercise testing, sweat testing, and cold air challenges 1. Additionally, the fellowship provides experience in combined cardiopulmonary testing in collaboration with the cardiology department.

Fellows participate in a robust flexible bronchoscopy program, utilizing a variety of fiberoptic and microchip scopes for advanced interventions. These procedures may be carried out in a dedicated endoscopy suite or anywhere in the hospital using a portable travel cart 1. The inpatient service is designed to manage pediatric pulmonology patients within general nursing floors, with daily rounds conducted alongside residents and other medical teams. The Fellowship encourages active teaching and consultation for various other medical and surgical teams, as well as the neonatal intensive care service.

The neonatal intensive care unit is well-equipped with 30 beds manned by dedicated neonatologists, while the hospital's critical care service oversees a pediatric intensive care unit, cardiac intensive care unit, and a special care/burn unit 1. Tower Health is recognized as a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, ensuring comprehensive surgical services are available as needed.

Mission and Educational Goals

The mission of the fellowship program is to foster a strong foundation in both clinical practice and research methodologies. Emphasis is placed on rigorous clinical training in a diverse patient population, combined with a commitment to the education of healthcare professionals 1. Fellows receive structured instruction in research design, methodology, statistics, and evidence-based medicine, ensuring they are well-prepared for future careers.

Application Requirements and Visa Support

Eligibility for the fellowship calls for the satisfactory completion of an ACGME-accredited Pediatric Residency or equivalent training recognized by the Program Director 1. Applicants must have successfully completed all three steps of the USMLE and provide three letters of recommendation. It is important to note that foreign medical graduates are required to possess a valid ECFMG certificate. Visa sponsorship options include U.S. Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or valid J-1 and H-1B Visas.

Competitiveness and Selection Process

The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship at Tower Health is competitive but remains friendly to both D.O. candidates and international medical graduates (IMGs). Applications are submitted through the ERAS system, with interviews scheduled in the Fall for Pediatric Specialties 1. The program starts on July 1 each year and looks for candidates who are not only dedicated to clinical excellence but also have a passion for advancing the field through research.