University of Cincinnati Medical Center/College of Medicine Program

The Allergy/Immunology Fellowship at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC) offers a comprehensive training program focused on cultivating outstanding academic physicians and clinician educators in the field of allergy and immunology. Since its establishment in 1969, the program has evolved significantly while maintaining its mission to provide excellent training and educational opportunities.

Clinical Experience

The fellowship includes extensive clinical training in both inpatient and outpatient settings across various locations, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center/UC Health, Cincinnati VA Medical Center, and The Bernstein Allergy Group, which collaborates closely with the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Notably, pediatric cross-training composes approximately 20% of the fellowship, occurring at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), focusing on primary immune deficiencies and general pediatric allergic disease.

Fellows gain exposure to a wide array of allergic disorders, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergies, eczema, drug allergies, eosinophilic and mast cell disorders, urticaria/angioedema, and occupational lung diseases. This variety, coupled with a large referral base for rare disorders, enables fellows to acquire a thorough clinical experience.

Didactics and Conferences

Didactic sessions are a critical component of the fellowship, emphasizing collaborative learning between fellows from the pediatric and internal medicine programs. Regularly scheduled joint didactic sessions and shared clinical experiences ensure that the curriculum integrates smoothly throughout the training duration, fostering a well-rounded educational environment.

Research and Scholarly Activity

Research is an integral part of the fellowship, with all fellows participating in scholarly activities that involve generating publications. They can engage in basic science, translational, or clinical research projects and have opportunities to present their findings at national meetings. For those interested in research careers, the program may offer the option for additional years of training pertaining to research beyond the standard two years of ACGME accredited fellowship. Key research areas include chronic urticaria, mast cell activation, rhinitis, new asthma therapies, mechanisms of occupational lung disease, reproductive immunology, and asthma genetics.

Benefits and Compensation

Compensation for fellows aligns with policies established for graduate medical education participants by the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Details regarding contracts, salaries, and benefits are systematically outlined within the College of Medicine’s published information.

Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must possess a medical or doctorate of osteopathic degree from an accredited institution and be board eligible or certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. The Adult Allergy Program typically accepts two fellows every six months. All applications should be submitted through the ERAS program, ensuring that interested applicants follow the specified procedures required by the program.

In addition to general fellowship qualifications, applicants should keep in mind that the program is highly competitive. It invites physicians from diverse backgrounds, including MDs, DOs, and IMGs, to apply, fostering an inclusive academic environment. 

Graduate Career Paths

Graduates of the Allergy/Immunology Fellowship typically pursue various career paths, including further training in advanced rheumatology, academic positions, and private practice opportunities. The graduates maintain a steadfast 100% ten-year ABMS ® Board pass rate, highlighting the program's effectiveness in preparing its fellows for successful careers.