University at Buffalo Program

The Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Fellowship program at the University at Buffalo provides a comprehensive training experience that is designed to equip fellows with the necessary skills to excel in the field of pulmonary and critical care medicine. The program is built around strong clinical training and extensive research opportunities, preparing fellows for successful careers in both clinical and academic settings.

Why Choose the Fellowship Program?

The fellowship program prides itself on its dedicated faculty who are not only clinically active but also involved in ongoing research. This supportive environment allows fellows to receive personal attention from faculty members, fostering mentorship relationships that can greatly enhance the educational experience. The emphasis on a low fellow-to-faculty ratio means that fellows can expect individualized guidance throughout their training, from direct bedside observations to discussions regarding research and scholarship opportunities 1.

Training Sites and Clinical Experience

Pursuing a fellowship in this program means engaging with a diverse training environment across several major hospitals in the Buffalo area. Each training site offers unique exposure to various patient populations, ensuring that fellows gain a broad range of clinical experiences. Among the distinctive aspects of this program are the specialized clinics, such as a pulmonary hypertension clinic, a trauma and burn center, and a comprehensive cancer center. Such exposure enables fellows to encounter a wide array of pulmonary conditions in complex patients 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum of the Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Fellowship is meticulously designed to balance rigorous clinical training with research opportunities. The training spans multiple years, allowing fellows to progressively develop their expertise.

First Year

The first year of training focuses on cultivating foundational clinical skills. This involves extensive direct patient care and guidance under faculty supervision, allowing fellows to familiarize themselves with the various aspects of pulmonary and critical care 1.

Second and Third Years

In the second year, fellows assume greater responsibilities, including independent patient management while continuing to deepen their knowledge and skills in complex procedures. By the third year, fellows are expected to refine their expertise and may choose to specialize further or prepare for independent practice 1.

Research Opportunities

The program features strong opportunities for research, with several faculty members engaged in ongoing clinical and translational research. Fellows are encouraged to participate actively in research projects and present findings at national and international conferences. There is also funding available through the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, supporting a variety of research initiatives 1.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The fellowship program is known for being friendly to both DO and IMG candidates, making it an inclusive option for many potential applicants. The program also provides visa sponsorship, enabling international medical graduates to apply for J-1 visas. This inclusivity reflects the program's commitment to diversity in training and patient care 1.

Application Requirements

Prospective fellows should be aware that certain application criteria may include a maximum number of failed Step exams, as well as a consideration of the applicant's year of graduation from medical school. These requirements aim to ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the rigors of fellowship training 1.

Living in Buffalo

Buffalo is characterized by a vibrant community and offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost. With a temperate climate and four distinct seasons, the city provides a unique atmosphere that complements the intensive training of the fellowship. This allows fellows to enjoy a balanced lifestyle while pursuing their education and training 1.