University of Alabama Medical Center Program

Overview of the Sleep Medicine Fellowship Program

The Sleep Medicine Fellowship Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is a one-year intensive training program designed to provide a comprehensive education in sleep medicine. This fellowship is distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach, as training encompasses multiple specialties, including pediatric and adult pulmonary medicine and neurology. The program aims to cultivate sleep medicine practitioners who are leaders in the field through an experience guided by diverse faculty expertise and clinical teaching.

The UAB Sleep Disorder Centers see a wide array of sleep disorders, making it a unique training ground for fellows who will gain exposure to both common and rare conditions. This broad clinical exposure is essential in developing well-rounded sleep medicine specialists.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the program is to train highly competent sleep medicine physicians who will excel in clinical practice as well as contribute to advancements in the subspecialty. The fellowship emphasizes not just clinical service but also quality improvement and patient safety.

Application Process

Candidates interested in applying for the fellowship must submit several key materials through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including:

• Personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• Recent photograph
• Medical School Performance Evaluation (MSPE)
• Medical school transcript
• USMLE/COMLEX transcript
• Three letters of recommendation (one must be from the Department of Pediatrics Chair or Residency Director)

It is advised that applicants ensure all materials are received by the program, as the selection process includes an interview following the review of the completed application.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship curriculum is structured to provide an evenly distributed experience between pediatric and adult sleep medicine. Core conference sessions such as the ATS Sleep Medicine Case Conference and the Sleep Medicine Journal Club are held regularly, enhancing the learning atmosphere through collaborative discussions.

During the fellowship, fellows will undertake various rotations. These include:

• Pediatric Rotation Month: Involves polysomnography (PSG) reading, interactions in pediatric and adult sleep clinics, and participation in didactics.
• Adult Rotation Month: Similar structure to the pediatric month with an emphasis on adult patient assessments and treatments.
• Elective Month: Fellows will engage in an elective during the second half of their training to explore interests and additional specialties.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship offers several pathways for research and quality improvement projects. Selected focuses include:

• Translational approaches to disparities in sleep and circadian rhythm disorders.
• Investigations relating nonpharmacological treatments to childhood sleep-disordered breathing.
• Quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient follow-ups and care processes.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program also offers visa sponsorship for suitable candidates, including support for J-1 and H-1B visa applications. It welcomes applications from both DO and IMG candidates, making it a relatively friendly environment for diverse backgrounds.

Special Application Requirements

While there are no strict regulations concerning years of graduation or maximum failed STEP exams, candidates should reflect a commitment to the field and actively seek opportunities that bolster their application.

Conclusion

UAB’s Sleep Medicine Fellowship Program is tailored for future leaders in sleep medicine, offering extensive training, research opportunities, and a collaborative learning environment.